The prestigious 72nd National Film Awards ceremony, held in Gujarat, was a night of monumental achievements, but for Bollywood superstar Kartik Aaryan, it was the realization of a lifelong dream. Taking home his first-ever National Film Award for Best Actor for his stellar performance in Kabir Khan’s Chandu Champion, the actor was visibly overwhelmed with emotion.
Sharing the top acting honor with Malayalam cinema legend Mammootty, Kartik’s win has been highly celebrated by fans and critics alike. Taking to social media shortly after receiving the prestigious accolade from President Droupadi Murmu, the actor penned a deeply moving note reflecting on his journey and dedicating his historic win to the true heroes of the nation.
A Tribute to India’s Paralympians
For Kartik, portraying India’s first Paralympic gold medalist, Murlikant Petkar, was much more than just another movie role—it was a deeply personal journey of grit and resilience.
Celebrating his massive victory, the actor took to his social media handles to express his profound gratitude. Calling it the “dream of a small-town boy,” the Gwalior-born star dedicated his National Award to the incredible, unbreakable spirit of Indian athletes.
“I would love to share my biggest honour with every Paralympian in the country and with everyone who dares to dream the impossible and never gives up!” Kartik wrote in his heartfelt post. He further thanked the National Film Awards jury, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and President Droupadi Murmu, expressing his hope that this prestigious accolade is “just the beginning” of many more cinematic milestones.
Emotional Over President Droupadi Murmu’s Words
The grand awards ceremony at Ekta Nagar was filled with unforgettable moments, but one specific instance left the actor visibly teary-eyed in the audience.
During her official address, President Droupadi Murmu took a moment to specially acknowledge Kartik Aaryan’s immense hard work, dedication, and the powerful, uplifting message conveyed through Chandu Champion. Hearing his efforts being praised by the President of India on such a massive national platform left the actor visibly moved.
Speaking to the media after the ceremony, a humbled and beaming Kartik expressed his disbelief. “Thank you, thank you very much… I am very happy. I would also like to thank President ma’am. She addressed it so wonderfully and the way she did… I am speechless,” he stated, proudly holding his medal.
The Grueling Transformation for Chandu Champion
Kartik’s National Award win is a massive testament to the severe physical and mental toll he endured to bring Murlikant Petkar’s inspiring story to the big screen.
To authentically portray the 1965 war veteran who went on to excel in swimming and javelin throw despite suffering debilitating bullet injuries, Kartik underwent a brutal 14-month physical transformation. Under the strict guidance of his trainers and director Kabir Khan, he completely shed his body fat, built the athletic physique of a professional sportsman, and trained extensively in boxing and swimming.
His relentless, singular dedication to the craft has clearly paid off, turning Chandu Champion into a career-defining masterpiece and proving that the small-town boy from Gwalior is here to cement his legacy in Indian cinema!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What did Kartik Aaryan win a National Award for?
Kartik Aaryan won the Best Actor award at the 72nd National Film Awards for his critically acclaimed performance in the biographical sports drama Chandu Champion.
Who did Kartik Aaryan dedicate his National Award to?
The actor dedicated his first National Award to every Paralympian in the country and to anyone who dares to dream the impossible and refuses to give up.
Who did Kartik Aaryan share the Best Actor award with?
Kartik Aaryan shared the Best Actor honor with Malayalam cinema legend Mammootty, who won the award for his brilliant performance in Bramayugam.
What was Kartik Aaryan’s role in Chandu Champion?
Directed by Kabir Khan, Chandu Champion features Kartik Aaryan in the titular role of Murlikant Petkar, a 1965 war veteran who overcame severe injuries to become India’s first-ever Paralympic gold medalist.
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