Kabir Khan directed Chandu Champion, a biographical sports story film, which was produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under the banner Nadiadwala Grandson Pictures. Initially this year Maidaan, starring Ajay Devgn, was released and tells the story of a real-life Indian soccer team coach. There was Shimit Amin’s Chak De India, starring Shah Rukh Khan and has become a cult beloved. These and other successful films opened the door for filmmakers to narrate the stories of unsung athletes who achieved great things but were forgotten over time. And this month on 14th June Chandu Champion, director-writer Kabir Khan pays tribute to one such overlooked hero, Muralikant Petkar.
About Muralikant Petkar
Muralikant Petkar, was born in Maharashtra, and he was India’s first Paralympic third-place medal winner. Initially, he was teased by friends who called him “Chandu Champion”. He joined a local akhada with the goal of becoming an Olympian. Despite his early difficulties, he gained admiration by defeating a wealthy man’s son in a wrestling bout. However, this stirred up conflict in his community, leading him to leave and enlist in the Indian army.
Muralikant Petkar in Indian Army
Muralikant Petkar found it truly challenging in the Indian army, but with his friend Karnail Singh made it easier. When he recognized that through the army’s ability he could compete in the Olympics. His enthusiasm brought him into contact with Tiger Ali, a military officer specializing in boxing training. Despite his background in wrestling, Murali’s determination secured him a spot in the International Military Games in Tokyo, with encouragement from Tiger Ali. Murali wished for Tiger Ali to mentor him, aiming to use the Asian Games as a stepping stone to the Olympics, but Ali declined, doubting his abilities.
During his time in the Indian Army, they were attacked by the Pakistan Air Force while stationed in Kashmir, resulting in the death of Karnail and serious injury to Tiger Ali. Murali sustained nine gunshot wounds, which left him partially paralysed when he regained consciousness two years later.
After starting swimming lessons, Tiger Ali, Murali’s war-survivor coach, paid him a visit. Tiger Ali motivated Murali to participate in the Paralympics, despite his uncertainties about his capacity to represent his country again. Tiger Ali assumed responsibility for his swimming training, emphasizing a sport that required minimal leg movement. Murali and Tiger Ali witnessed the Black September assault on the Israeli team during the 1972 Munich Olympics, which resulted in eleven deaths. Murali injured himself while attempting to escape gunfire. The Munich Olympics were canceled, but Heidelberg, Germany, was selected later that year to host the Paralympics.
Muralikant Petkar, who was once considered an underdog, made history by being the first Indian to swim for his country at the 1972 Heidelberg Paralympics. He competed despite sustaining a head injury in the semifinals because he was driven to inspire others and disprove his bullies. With the support of his coach, Tiger Ali, Murali participated in the championship race. He overcame all obstacles to win the gold medal, making his Sangli community and family proud. In addition to realizing his dream, his triumph inspired many others to pursue their passions despite adversity.
The Padma Shri was awarded to Muralikant Petkar in recognition of his contributions to Indian sports and his ability to motivate people. Real-life footage of Muralikant receiving the award from President Ram Nath Kovind in 2018 concludes the film. In the final moments of “Chandu Champion,” Muralikant returns home to a hero’s welcome reminiscent of the reception given to the first Indian Olympian. Muralikant’s aspiration to be an inspiration to a generation was fulfilled as young children looked up to him.
Chandu Champion stars Kartik Aaryan portraying Murlikant Petkar, India’s inaugural Paralympic gold medalist.
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