Today, in collaboration with the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), PVR INOX, India’s biggest and most premium cinema exhibitor is pleased to be hosting a special screening of the much expected biographical drama Chandu Champion. The event had been titled “75 Days to Paralympics 2024” and it was conducted on June 14, 2024 at PVR Priya at Vasant Vihar, New Delhi. Among those who attended the screening session were Mr. Petkar Murlikant President PCI and Mr. Devinder; in addition to officials as well as para-athletic participants.
An Indian based film that follows the life of the country’s first paralympian, Murlikant Petkar from which Chandu Champion, emerges as an inspiring biographical drama film. This movie ties together his amazing record in athletics and his indomitable spirit still encouraging sportsmen across continents till date. It is also a testament of human willpower defying all odds through resilience and determination, which are some of the core values that define Paralympics.
“The minute I watch this movie every time brings tears into my eyes,” shared Petkar. “It was like going back in history where I remembered all challenges that have shaped me until now.” These stories can also serve as inspiration for others coming out of this field because there are so many more such marvellous accounts hidden inside the world of para-sports.
This shows how strong storytelling is important when it comes to remembering great achievements by individuals including people like him who have never given up as they push themselves day after day on their journey towards becoming champions. As India plans its way to Paris Paralympics this event should remind us about boundless possibilities within Indian para sports community.
Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director of PVR INOX Ltd., expressed his excitement concerning the event stating, “We are grateful to the Paralympic Committee of India for having partnered with us in organizing this special screening for Chandu Champion. It is not just a tribute to the amazing journey of Mr. Murlikant Petkar but is also an inspiration to all. Hopefully, this viewing will provide encouragement and motivation to our Paralympians as they prepare for their forthcoming Pralympic games in Paris.”
Petkar has been left choked by the way his life was presented on screen as he expressed his heartfelt gratitude and nostalgia, “It makes me cry each time I see it,” shared Petkar. “I went back in time while watching it to recollect every difficulty that paved my path”. There are many stories like these that inspire athletes within para-sports community and I wish there were more film makers who could bring them out.
Devendra Jhajharia, President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), echoed Petkar’s sentiments, emphasizing his enduring influence as an inspiration for para-athletes nationwide “Murli sir has always been a guiding light for us,” remarked Jhajharia. “We hope that this film will not only resonate with para-athletes but will also inspire a broader audience to appreciate the resilience and determination within the para sports community.”
