Kartik Aaryan Receives National Award, Calls Moment ‘Special’ And ‘Speechless’

Actor Kartik Aaryan expressed gratitude and excitement after receiving the National Award in Gujarat, describing the honour as a deeply special moment that left him “speechless.”

Kartik took to Instagram to share pictures and a video from the ceremony, including the moment he was presented with the Rajat Kamal and certificate by President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday.

Kartik Aaryan Pens Heartfelt Note

Sharing the moment his name was announced on stage, Kartik reflected on his journey from Gwalior to becoming a National Award-winning actor.

“Looking back affectionately with a smile at that mumma’s boy from Gwalior who dared to dream of becoming an actor from an environment, जहां लोग ऐसे सपनों पर हँसकर आगे बढ़ जाते हैं,” he wrote.

“Finally, I witnessed and lived the moment… still numb with excitement and nervousness… A dream of a small town boy… the dream of every actor in the country… The National Award for Best Actor,” Kartik added.

The actor credited director Kabir Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala for trusting him with the role of Murlikant Petkar in Chandu Champion.

“I will always be grateful and indebted to Kabir sir and Sajid sir for trusting me with the responsibility of playing India’s first Paralympic Gold Champion- Murlikant Petkar sir on the big screen,” he wrote.

Describing the experience, Kartik said the journey was “extremely painful” but the result was “as sweet as rasmalai.”

‘This Is Just The Beginning’

Kartik also thanked his parents, friends, team and everyone who supported him throughout his career.

“The only constant companions in this long journey have been my belief in myself, my backbone – my parents’ blessings, their unconditional love and support, my friends’ encouragement at every juncture when I was losing hope, and my team, who works tirelessly to make my work life smooth,” he said.

He dedicated the honour to Paralympians and people who continue to pursue seemingly impossible dreams.

“I would love to share my biggest honour with every Paralympian in the country and with everyone who dares to dream the impossible and never gives up!” Kartik wrote.

He also thanked the jury, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry and President Droupadi Murmu for the honour, before concluding: “In the end, I would like to believe and say that this is just the beginning of many more milestones to come… गणपति बप्पा मोरया.”

Kartik’s Award-Winning Performance

Kartik received the National Award for Best Actor for his performance as Murlikant Petkar in Chandu Champion. The award was shared with Mammootty for his performance in Bramayugam.

Directed by Kabir Khan and produced by Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, Chandu Champion is based on the life of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist in freestyle swimming.

Kartik underwent an extensive physical transformation and intensive training to portray the athlete on screen. Released in 2024, the film follows Petkar’s journey and determination to overcome challenges and achieve sporting glory.