Just yesterday it was reported that Kartik Aaryan's next film with Kabir Khan will be called Chandu Champion. This film will feature Kartik essaying the role of an unknown sports hero who had an indomitable spirit. ETimes was able to speak to a few industry sources and we found out that Kartik's latest project has a connection with the late Sushant Singh Rajput.
A few years before his untimely demise, Sushant was slated to do another sports biopic after playing MS Dhoni on the big screen. Back then Chandu Champion was yet untitled and it was reported that the film was based on the story of a physically challenged army veteran, turned sportsperson Murlikant Petkar. He had won a Gold Medal at the Commonwealth Games in 1970 and also at the Paralympics in Germany in 1972.
Back in 2016, Sushant had expressed his reasons for signing on to do Murlikant Petkar's biopic. SSR had admitted that he was drawn to Petkar's story right away. He was hooked the moment he heard the story. SSR had noted that it was an uplifting story. Petkar's passion and the fact that he never let physical obstacles get in the way of his aspirations, inspired Sushant.
Now the onus of bringing this remarkable character to life rests with Kartik Aaryan. SSR's unfuilfilled dream of giving wings to Murlikant Petkar's story will now be realised by Kartik. The 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2' star has big shoes to fill, but he seems to be the right person to fill in the void left by SSR's absence.
Those in the know have also revealed to ETimes that Kartik is undergoing rigorous training for this role. He is being pushed to the limits as he trains in multiple sports, which Murlikant Petkar was so adept at. Kartik apparently is throwing the kitchen sink in his preparation and physical transformation.
Kartik and director Kabir Khan's team-up will be an interesting creative partnership. Fans will be hoping this film turns out as special as it's central character.