Chandu Champion is a heartfelt biopic directed by Kabir Khan, capturing the incredible journey of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist. This film, featuring Kartik Aaryan in the lead role, is a celebration of resilience and determination, portraying the life of a war hero who overcame immense obstacles to achieve greatness. Let’s dive into the story and highlights of this motivational movie.
Chandu Champion Story:
The movie follows Murlikant Petkar’s journey from a humble village in Maharashtra to the global stage of the 1972 Summer Paralympic Games in Heidelberg. Born in Sangli district, Petkar’s life takes many unexpected turns. From being a wrestler and boxer in the Indian Army to a war hero injured in the 1965 Indo-Pak war, his story is a testament to the human spirit. Despite being paralyzed from the waist down, Petkar’s relentless pursuit of excellence leads him to achieve a historic victory in freestyle swimming, securing India’s first Paralympic gold medal.
The film opens with an elderly Murlikant Petkar visiting a police station to file a complaint against the President of India for not awarding him the Arjuna Award. This intriguing start draws the audience into his life’s flashback, where we see young Murlikant’s early struggles and dreams of becoming an Olympian, inspired by the legendary wrestler Dara Singh. As a young boy, Murlikant faces ridicule and skepticism but remains undeterred, driven by an unyielding desire to succeed.
His journey takes him from the wrestling pits of his village to the boxing rings of the Indian Army, where he trains under the strict guidance of Tiger Ali, played brilliantly by Vijay Raaz. Murlikant’s path is fraught with obstacles, including a life-altering injury during the war that leaves him paralyzed. Yet, it is in the face of such adversity that Murlikant’s true champion spirit emerges, as he transitions to swimming and sets his sights on Paralympic glory.
Highlights:
“Chandu Champion” stands out for its powerful performances and compelling narrative. Kartik Aaryan delivers an exceptional performance, embodying the spirit and determination of Murlikant Petkar. His transformation from a carefree actor to a dedicated athlete is commendable. Aaryan sheds his usual persona to fully embrace the physically demanding and emotionally charged role, offering a portrayal that is both inspiring and heartfelt.
Vijay Raaz, as Petkar’s coach Tiger Ali, adds depth and authenticity to the film, making his scenes truly memorable. Raaz’s portrayal is nuanced and powerful, providing a perfect foil to Aaryan’s character. Their on-screen chemistry and dynamic relationship form the emotional core of the film, driving much of the narrative’s impact.
The film’s pacing is brisk, ensuring that the audience remains engaged throughout. The cinematography by Sudeep Chatterjee is noteworthy, especially in the depiction of sports scenes and the war sequences. The soundtrack, composed by Pritam, enhances the emotional and dramatic moments, adding to the overall impact of the film. The musical score, particularly the uplifting and energetic sequences, plays a significant role in immersing the audience in Murlikant’s journey.
Shortcomings:
While “Chandu Champion” is uplifting, it is not without its flaws. The film occasionally veers into melodrama, which can feel overdone. Some aspects of Petkar’s life are glossed over or rushed, leaving gaps in the narrative. For instance, certain key moments in his sports career and personal life are not explored in depth, potentially leaving viewers wanting more comprehensive storytelling.
The movie also lacks significant female characters, which might have added more dimension to the story. The few female roles present, such as Murlikant’s mother and the journalists, are underdeveloped and do not significantly impact the narrative. This oversight may detract from the film’s ability to present a well-rounded portrayal of its protagonist’s life and the influences around him.
Behind the Scenes:
Director Kabir Khan, known for his previous sports drama “83,” brings his expertise to “Chandu Champion.” His passion for telling underdog stories shines through, though he adheres to a familiar formula for sports biopics. The effort to highlight the challenges faced by para-athletes in India is commendable and adds a layer of social commentary to the film.
The dedication of the cast and crew is evident in the authenticity of the sports scenes. Kartik Aaryan’s physical transformation and training for the role demonstrate his commitment to doing justice to Petkar’s legacy. The intense training sequences and realistic portrayal of athletic events reflect the hard work and research put into making the film believable and engaging.
Vijay Raaz’s portrayal of the coach provides a perfect balance of toughness and empathy, making their on-screen relationship a cornerstone of the film. The director of photography, Sudeep Chatterjee, captures the essence of different sporting arenas, each with its unique color palette and atmosphere, preventing visual monotony and keeping the audience visually engaged.
Final Score:
“Chandu Champion” is a motivational and heartwarming film that celebrates the triumph of the human spirit. Despite its minor flaws, the film succeeds in delivering an engaging and emotionally resonant story. With stellar performances, particularly by Kartik Aaryan and Vijay Raaz, it is a worthy tribute to Murlikant Petkar16’s extraordinary life.
In conclusion, “Chandu Champion” is a film that not only entertains but also inspires. It reminds us of the power of perseverance and the importance of recognizing and honouring our unsung heroes. This biopic is a must-watch for anyone looking for a story of courage, determination, and ultimate victory. Kabir Khan’s directorial prowess, combined with exceptional performances, makes “Chandu Champion” a standout film in the genre of sports biopics.