Kartik Aaryan has won the Best Actor award at the 72nd National Film Awards, sharing the honour with Malayalam cinema veteran Mammootty. The award recognises Aaryan’s lead performance in Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan.

The recognition marks a major moment in Aaryan’s career, rewarding a role that demanded physical transformation and emotional restraint.

A demanding role in Chandu Champion

The film tells the story of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist. Aaryan portrays Petkar’s journey from a village wrestler to a soldier and boxer, before the character’s life is altered by injuries sustained during the 1965 war.

Critics noted the scale of the transformation, both physical and emotional. Aaryan moved away from the light-hearted roles often associated with him, instead delivering a performance built around resilience, determination and personal struggle.

Some reviewers said the film occasionally followed a familiar sports-biopic structure. However, many added that Aaryan’s sincerity and commitment kept the audience emotionally invested in Petkar’s story.

Jury praise and public response

The central film jury, chaired by Jayaraj, praised Aaryan for bringing an overlooked national hero’s story to the screen with dignity and impact. Jayaraj said the performance “transcends the conventions of a sports biopic” and gives the unsung hero’s story “dignity, sincerity, and lasting impact”.

The award also reflects wider public expectations around the role. Online discussions had already suggested that portraying a forgotten national icon in such an intense and physically demanding film could attract major recognition.

By combining emotional depth with athletic action, Aaryan’s performance helped reintroduce Petkar’s story to a wider audience. The win strengthens his standing as a performer capable of leading serious, large-scale dramatic cinema.