Kartik Aaryan recalls filming the podium scene in Chandu Champion; says, “Those were genuine tears of victory”

Actor Kartik Aaryan, who portrayed India’s first Paralympics gold medallist Murlikant Petkar in Kabir Khan’s Chandu Champion, opened up about filming one of the most impactful scenes of the film - the medal ceremony sequence that follows Petkar’s historic win.

 

Kartik Aaryan recalls filming the podium scene in Chandu Champion; says, “Those were genuine tears of victory”

 

In a throwback interview, Kartik reflected on the first day of filming, which began with the National Anthem scene. “The first shot we filmed was Jana Gana Mana, where Murlikant had just won the race. I was on the wheelchair, the medal was placed on me, and the anthem began. It was such an overwhelming moment that everyone forgot to say cut. I was crying, and those were genuine tears of victory,” Kartik recalled.

 

The actor also revealed that director Kabir Khan had initially asked if he wanted glycerine for the scene. Kartik declined, opting instead to approach the performance through internalisation. “I told Kabir sir that glycerin doesn’t work for me. I said, ‘Let me go through that thought, and it will happen.’ When the scene began and the anthem played, everything else just disappeared. It was a deeply emotional moment for all of us,” he shared.

 

Released in theatres on 14 June 2024, Chandu Champion received attention for its portrayal of a relatively lesser-known sports figure and brought national focus back to Murlikant Petkar’s journey. Earlier this year, Petkar was honoured with the Arjuna Award, decades after his historic achievement. The award sparked renewed discussion about recognition for Indian sports heroes whose stories often go unnoticed.

 

Kartik’s performance in the film drew praise for its emotional sincerity and physical commitment to the role. Many cited the podium scene as one of the most memorable in the film, with its understated execution leaving a lasting impact.

 

Looking ahead, Kartik Aaryan is set to appear in an untitled musical love story alongside Sreeleela, directed by Anurag Basu, slated for a Diwali 2025 release. He will also star in Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri reportedly starring Ananya Panday, which is scheduled to release in 2026.

 

Also Read: Kartik Aaryan to have a double role in Nagzilla; to be the hero & villain like SRK in Jawan?

Catch us for latest Bollywood News, New Bollywood Movies update, Box office collection,New Movies Release, Bollywood News Hindi, Entertainment News, Bollywood News Today & upcoming movies 2024 and stay updated with latest hindi movies only on Bollywood Hungama.