Mumbai, September 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Actor Kartik Aaryan marked a major career milestone on September 22 after receiving the National Award for Best Actor for his performance as Paralympic champion Murlikant Petkar in Chandu Champion.
Director Kabir Khan, who helmed the film, celebrated the actor’s achievement on social media. Sharing a picture with Kartik, he wrote, “Humesha Sher ki chaal Chalna mere champion… with that unmistakable laugh of yours…”
Kartik dedicated the honour to the people who supported him throughout his journey, particularly his parents, friends and professional team.
Reflecting on the achievement, Kartik described the moment as the realisation of a dream he had carried since his days in Gwalior.
“Looking back affectionately with a smile at that mumma’s boy from Gwalior who dared to dream of becoming an actor from an environment, Finally, I witnessed and lived the moment… still numb with excitement and nervousness… A dream of a small town boy… the dream of every actor in the country… The National Award for Best Actor ‘Chandu Nahi, Champion hai Main’,” he wrote.
Kartik expressed gratitude to Kabir Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala for trusting him with the role of Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist.
“I will always be grateful and indebted to Kabir sir and Sajid sir for trusting me with the responsibility of playing India’s first Paralympic Gold Champion- Murlikant Petkar sir on the big screen. The journey was extremely painful, but the result is as sweet as rasmalai! I feel humbled and emotional at the same time,” he added.
The actor also credited his parents’ blessings and unconditional support, along with the encouragement of friends and the efforts of his team, for helping him through the demanding journey.
Kartik said he wanted to share the honour with every Paralympian in the country and with people who continue to pursue seemingly impossible dreams.
He also thanked the National Award jury, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry and President Droupadi Murmu for the recognition, while looking ahead to future milestones.
“In the end, I would like to believe and say that this is just the beginning of many more milestones to come… Ganpati Bappa Morya,” he wrote.
Chandu Champion tells the story of Murlikant Petkar, who overcame significant challenges to become a Paralympic champion. Kartik’s performance in the film has now earned him the National Award for Best Actor.
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