Image Source: New Indian Express
The upcoming film “Chandu Champion” starring Kartik Aryan promises to be an inspiring tale, but before we witness this fictional portrayal on screen, let’s turn our attention to the real-life hero who inspired it – Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist.
Born in 1944 in Sangli, Maharashtra, Petkar was a natural athlete. His younger days were filled with a passion for sports, particularly wrestling and hockey. This athleticism would pave the way for an extraordinary journey, one marked by immense adversity and ultimately, unparalleled triumph.
In 1965, Petkar’s life took a dramatic turn. Serving in the Indian Army during the Indo-Pakistan War, he was severely injured, sustaining nine bullet wounds. These wounds left him permanently disabled, a reality that could have easily broken his spirit.
However, Petkar’s strength and determination shone through. During his long recovery in hospitals, doctors recommended swimming for physical therapy. Little did they know, they were igniting a passion that would propel Petkar to sporting greatness once again.
Swimming became more than just rehabilitation for Petkar; it became his new arena for competition. He honed his skills with unwavering focus, his competitive spirit refusing to be dampened by his injuries. This dedication led him to the 1968 Paralympics in Mexico, where he participated in table tennis, reaching the first round.
However, Petkar’s true calling was in the pool. He set his sights on swimming and trained relentlessly. This culminated in a defining moment at the 1972 Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany. There, Petkar not only clinched the gold medal in the 50-meter freestyle event but also shattered the world record with a time of 37.33 seconds.
Petkar’s achievements extended beyond the gold medal. He participated in javelin throw, precision javelin throw, and slalom at the same Paralympics, reaching the finals in all three events. This versatility showcased his exceptional athletic ability and unwavering spirit.
Petkar’s story is more than just about sporting achievements. It’s a testament to human resilience, the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds, and the power of finding purpose even in the face of adversity.
News of Petkar’s victory sent a wave of pride across India. Here was a soldier, a war hero, who had not only defied limitations but emerged as a champion on the world stage. His story, however, remained largely untold for decades, a testament to the lack of recognition often accorded to Paralympic athletes in India.
Despite the lack of national recognition, Petkar continued to inspire others. He actively participated in various sporting events for people with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and demonstrating the power of sport in rehabilitation. He also became a motivational speaker, sharing his story of resilience and determination with audiences across the country.
In 2018, Petkar’s remarkable contributions were finally recognized with the prestigious Padma Shri Award, one of India’s highest civilian honours. Today, at 79, Murlikant Petkar stands as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a symbol of hope for everyone facing challenges.
As “Chandu Champion” brings Petkar’s story to the big screen, it serves as a powerful reminder that true champions are forged not just in victories but also in the unwavering spirit that confronts defeat. The film has the potential to not only celebrate Petkar’s achievements but also spark a national conversation about disability awareness, inclusivity in sports, and the importance of recognizing and celebrating the triumphs of Paralympic athletes.
Petkar’s story transcends the boundaries of sport. It’s a story of courage, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. It’s a story that deserves to be heard, not just before the release of “Chandu Champion,” but for generations to come.
