Biopic On Murlikant Petkar
Director Kabir Khan, known for directing epics such as Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Ek Tha Tiger, has directed another masterpiece. The movie, titled Chandu Champion, is an upcoming biographical drama. It depicts the story of India’s first Paralympic gold medallist, Murlikant Petkar. The role is played by Kartik Aaryan. The theme of the movie and the person whose story is told in the film are well chosen. It can be said that Murlikant Petkar is one of the unsung heroes who decided not to sit back but rather chose to achieve milestones despite life’s unfairness
Who is Chandu Champion?
Murlikant Petkar was known as the “Chandu Champion” due to his remarkable achievements and contributions in sports, particularly after overcoming significant physical challenges. His nickname “Chandu Champion” symbolises his champion spirit and his success in becoming India’s first Paralympic gold medallist. He was born in 1944 in Maharashtra and later joined the Indian Army at the craftsman rank in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME). He survived nine bullet wounds during the Indo-Pakistan war in 1965. This incident led him to a coma for over one and a half years and disabled him for a lifetime.
What inspired him to join sports?
Murlikant’s military background and training became an inspiration for him not to give up and join sports as a means of overcoming his physical limitations. He had a strong sense of determination and discipline which inspired him to channelise in sports.
Did he do well in sports?
Murlikant redirected his focus towards athletics and achieved remarkable success. He did not care about his injuries or what people said; rather, he excelled not only in one field but in several. No one could break his spirit. He took up swimming, javelin, tennis, and more. He also represented the Indian Army in boxing at the 1964 International Services Sports Meet in Tokyo. His most notable accomplishment was winning a gold medal in the 50-meter freestyle swimming event at the 1972 Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany, setting a world record with a time of 37.33 seconds.
When and why was he honoured with Padma Shri?
Murlikant Petkar was honoured with the Padma Shri in January 2018 by then President of India Ram Nath Kovind. He received this prestigious award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to sports and his pioneering role in Indian Paralympics. The paralympics drew the attention of many and from there he became an inspiration for many differently abled athletes in India. He inspired future generations and promoted inclusivity in sports. The Padma Shri acknowledged his resilience, dedication, and the inspirational impact of his accomplishments.
What did he do after retirement?
Even post retirement, Petkar involved himself in coaching and mentoring young athletes. He shared his inspiring experiences and motivated the next generation sports enthusiast.
He has achieved so much and showed that if life gives you lemons, make lemonade. He deserves a biopic. The movie is getting released on 14th June 2024. Here is trailer.
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