Kartik Aaryan Bags First Filmfare Best Actor for 'Chandu Champion'

Kartik Aaryan just had a truly emotional and triumphant moment, taking home his first-ever Filmfare Best Actor award for his incredible work in "Chandu Champion." His win for the inspiring biographical drama has everyone buzzing!

TL;DR:

• Kartik Aaryan secured his first Filmfare Best Actor (Male) award for his role in "Chandu Champion" at the 70th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2025.
• He shared a heartfelt speech, dedicating the "black lady" trophy to all dreamers and acknowledging the profound impact of working on Murlikant Petkar's inspiring story.
• Director Kabir Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala showered praise on Kartik's dedication and "transformative" performance, despite the film's quiet box office run.

Kartik Aaryan's Emotional Journey to His First Filmfare Best Actor Award

Talk about a dream come true! Our very own Kartik Aaryan has officially snagged his first-ever Filmfare Best Actor (Male) award. The 70th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2025, held on October 11 in Ahmedabad, saw Kartik honored for his absolutely phenomenal portrayal of Murlikant Petkar in the biographical drama "Chandu Champion." And let us tell you, it was an emotional night!

For an actor who started with big dreams, watching the prestigious "black lady" trophy on TV, finally holding it in his hands was a moment that "hit different." With his proud parents in the audience, Kartik delivered an impromptu, deeply personal speech that resonated with everyone. He shared that every emotion he'd ever felt found its voice that night, turning a prepared speech into a lived experience.

Bringing Murlikant Petkar's Inspiring Story to Life

"Chandu Champion" is more than just a film; it's a powerful tribute to Murlikant Petkar, India's first Paralympic gold medalist. And Kartik Aaryan’s dedication to embodying this extraordinary life was evident to everyone involved. He literally "lived and breathed the spirit of Mr. Murlikant Petkar" from day one, according to producer Sajid Nadiadwala. Bringing such a story to life with "honesty and heart" made his team incredibly proud.

The film, helmed by the visionary Kabir Khan and produced under Sajid Nadiadwala’s Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, has been lauded for its "powerful storytelling and emotional depth." While "Chandu Champion" might not have been a massive box office hit, Kartik's performance stood out, winning over critics and audiences alike for its sheer brilliance.

"Champion girta hai… par rukta nahi. Some moments feel like a dream… and this was one of them. My FIRST EVER FILMFARE BEST ACTOR for Chandu Champion. From the days I only watched the black lady on TV… to holding her in my hands – this one’s for every dreamer who refuses to give up."

— Kartik Aaryan, accepting his Filmfare Award

The Visionary Director and Supportive Producers Behind the Champion

Kartik didn't forget to thank the driving forces behind "Chandu Champion." He gave a heartfelt shout-out to director Kabir Khan, crediting him not just for directing but for "transforming" him. "Working under your vision was the most fulfilling experience of my career," Kartik shared, highlighting Khan’s ability to create "worlds, not just frames," filled with "truth, emotion and power."

Kabir Khan himself was full of praise for his lead actor. He noted that he "always knew, for an actor it was going to be very challenging to essay the role of Murlikant Petkar... but @kartikaaryan rose to the occasion and delivered EVERYTHING that I had desired as a film maker." Khan proudly called Kartik "not only a star who delivers commercial blockbusters but also an actor who is hungry for roles that challenge him – a very rare combination in our industry."

Producers Sajid Nadiadwala and Warda Khan Nadiadwala were also lauded as the "pillars of Chandu Champion." Their belief, strength, and unwavering support were crucial in bringing the film to fruition, especially in telling Petkar's legacy nearly 50 years after his monumental achievements. Sajid Nadiadwala’s social media post celebrating Kartik’s win called him "a true champion: on screen and off it," praising his "determination, the relentless hard work, and the hunger to keep pushing your limits."

A Night of Shared Victories and Mutual Admiration at Filmfare

The 70th Filmfare Awards was a night to remember for many! Kartik Aaryan shared the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Male) trophy with Abhishek Bachchan, who won for his performance in "I Want To Talk." This shared moment was truly special, with Abhishek calling Kartik "the future of Bollywood" and Kartik, in turn, calling Abhishek his inspiration. It was a beautiful display of camaraderie and respect within the industry, earning them loud applause from the audience.

Also shining brightly was Alia Bhatt, who took home the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Female) award. After the ceremony, the celebrations continued with a grand success party where Kartik, along with director Kabir Khan, Mini Mathur, Sajid Nadiadwala, Bhushan Kumar, and Shiv Chanana, celebrated their collective achievement. Kartik was spotted looking casual yet joyous in a white T-shirt and baggy jeans, waving to the media.

What's Next for Our Champion, Kartik Aaryan?

With a Filmfare under his belt, Kartik Aaryan is certainly riding high! Professionally, he's gearing up for the release of his next film, "Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri," where he stars alongside Ananya Panday. Fans are already buzzing about their chemistry, especially after they were seen chatting heartily at the Filmfare awards. This new romantic lead role is set to hit screens on December 31st.

And what about a potential reunion with Kabir Khan? When asked about it, Kartik just smiled, saying, "I certainly hope so. I’m not sure about that." But given their incredible collaboration on "Chandu Champion" and the mutual admiration, fans are definitely holding out hope for another magical pairing. Kartik’s journey continues to be an inspiration, proving that a champion may fall, but they never stop.

FAQs About Kartik Aaryan's Filmfare Win

• What award did Kartik Aaryan win at the Filmfare Awards?

  Kartik Aaryan won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Male) award at the 70th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2025.

• Which movie did Kartik Aaryan win the award for?

  He won for his performance in the biographical drama "Chandu Champion," where he portrayed Murlikant Petkar.

• Who else shared the Best Actor (Male) award with Kartik Aaryan?

  Kartik Aaryan shared the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Male) award with Abhishek Bachchan, who won for his role in "I Want To Talk."

• When and where were the 70th Filmfare Awards held?

  The 70th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2025 were held on October 11, 2025, in Ahmedabad.

Sources

Information for this article was synthesized from recent reports by Bollywood Hungama, Koimoi, Zoom TV Digital, IANS, Filmfare, and other entertainment news outlets covering the 70th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2025.