Meet Murlikant Petkar, the real Chandu Champion

Nirali Kanabar

Who is Murlikant Petkar?

Murlikant Petkar is India's first Paralympic gold medalist. He won a gold medal in the 1972 Summer Paralympics, in Germany. (Image credit - MurlikantPetkar.com)

Chandu Champion

Murlikant Petkar is presently in the news as a film, Chandu Champion,has been made on his life. The film stars Kartik Aaryan in the lead role.

Murlikant's world record

For the uninitiated, Murlikant Petkar holds a world record in the 50 m freestyle swimming event, at 37.33 seconds. (Image credit: MurlikantPetkar.com)

Served in Indian Army

Born on November 1, 1944, Murlikanth served as jawan of the craftsman rank in Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) in the Indian Army. (Image credit: KreedOn).

Obstacles faced

However, he faced a major setback when he suffered several bullet wounds during the 1965 war against Pakistan. Later, he switched to swimming and other sports.

The Padma Shri award

Murlikanth was honoured for his incredible contribution and achievements. He was conferred with the Padma Shri award in 2018. (Image credit: X/ADG PI Indian Army)

Life on the big screen

Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan is all set to bring his life journey on the big screen. Directed by Kabir Khan, Chandu Champion releases on June 14, 2024.