 "Five Must-Watch Sports Movies to Get You Pumped for Kartik Aaryan's 'Chandu Champion'")
With Kartik Aaryan’s highly anticipated film Chandu Champion hitting PVR INOX this weekend, it’s the perfect time to get inspired by real-life sports heroes. Chandu Champion is a biopic based on the life of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist. To get you in the spirit, here are five must-watch sports movies based on real-life champions:
Soorma
Soorma tells the incredible true story of Sandeep Singh, portrayed by Diljit Dosanjh. An Indian professional field hockey player from Haryana and an ex-captain of the Indian national hockey team, Sandeep is known as Flicker Singh for his lightning-fast drag flicks. As a penalty corner specialist, he overcame a career-threatening injury to become one of India’s most celebrated hockey captains. An Arjuna Awardee, Sandeep won medals at the Commonwealth and Asian Games. After being accidentally shot and paralyzed, his determination and passion for the sport fuelled his remarkable comeback.
Why watch: Witness an extraordinary tale of resilience and the human spirit’s power to overcome adversity.
Mary Kom
Mary Kom, starring Priyanka Chopra in the titular role, chronicles the inspiring journey of Indian boxer Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom, who overcomes numerous obstacles to achieve her dream of becoming a world champion. A six-time World Champion and 2012 Olympic bronze medallist, Mary Kom is the first female boxer in history to capture six world titles. She is also a five-time Asian champion and the first female boxer from India to win a gold medal at the 2014 Asian Games. Her story becomes even more remarkable as she makes a triumphant comeback after giving birth to her twins, winning a medal at the 2012 Olympics, and securing her place at the summit by clinching her sixth world title in 2018. A year later, she added to her legacy by winning her eighth world medal, the most by any male or female boxer.
Why watch: Experience the inspiring story of a woman who fights against all odds to become a boxing legend.
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
In Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Farhan Akhtar delivers a stellar performance as Milkha Singh, also known as the ‘Flying Sikh’. The film follows Milkha’s journey from a turbulent childhood to becoming one of India’s greatest athletes, winning gold at the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. With Sonam Kapoor and Divya Dutta in key roles, the movie captures Milkha Singh’s relentless drive to overcome personal and professional challenges, making it an inspiring tale of dedication and perseverance.
Why watch: Get inspired by the incredible journey of one of India’s greatest athletes.
Paan Singh Tomar
Irrfan Khan’s compelling portrayal of Paan Singh Tomar, an Indian soldier and steeplechase champion who becomes a notorious bandit, is at the heart of this gripping biographical film. Paan Singh Tomar, who won gold at the Indian National Games seven times in a row, finds himself embroiled in a life of rebellion due to socio-political issues. The film, which also stars Mahi Gill and Vipin Sharma, offers a thought-provoking look at the intersection of sports and societal injustice.
Why watch: Explore the complex story of an athlete turned rebel and the societal issues that shaped his destiny.
M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story
M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story features the late Sushant Singh Rajput in a captivating portrayal of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, one of India’s most successful cricket captains. With the tagline ‘The Man You Know…The Journey You Don’t Know,’ the film chronicles Dhoni’s journey from a small-town boy to leading India to numerous victories, including the 2011 ICC World Cup. Featuring compelling performances by Kiara Advani and Disha Patani, this biographical drama offers an intimate look into the life of a cricketing legend, highlighting his moments of struggle and triumph.
Why watch: Dive into the life of a cricketing icon and discover the determination behind his success.
Chandu Champion: The Man Who Refused to Surrender
Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan of Ek Tha Tiger and Bajrangi Bhaijaan fame, promises to inspire and captivate audiences. This biographical sports drama stars Kartik Aaryan as Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist, chronicling his extraordinary journey from war hero to sporting legend. It’s an incredible triumph story of one man’s courage defying all odds. Kartik’s jaw-dropping physical transformation for this role is the talk of the town, showcasing his dedication and bringing an added layer of authenticity to his portrayal of Petkar.
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