Kartik Aaryan will be seen next as Murlikant Petkar in Chandu Champion, Kabir Khan’s biographical drama of India’s first paralympic gold medallist. The actor, who was ranked among the most bankable stars after the success of his film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 at the box office, will also reprise his role as Rooh Baba in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Yet, he still doesn’t consider himself an ‘insider’ of the industry and sees himself as a ‘Lone Warrior.’
Excerpts from an interview
What were the ‘Dos and Don’ts’ for your character in Chandu Champion?
There were many ‘Dos’, but hardly any ‘Don’ts’. Kabir [Khan] sir changed my lifestyle. He hand-picked trainers for me, including in physio, dangal, athletics, boxing and swimming, and fixed a special nutritious diet too. My life pattern changed drastically. I had insomnia but I was told to get proper 8 hours to bring perfection to my part.
How did your body change with the preparation?
I started losing weight and gaining muscularity. At the start, I had 30% fat but brought it down to 7%. For almost two-and-a-half years I just following this regime and my outside life had come to a standstill.
How did you take to gymming and swimming?
I was an athlete but not into gymming or nutrition. I did push-ups and played cricket and football as a centre-forward. I wasn’t into swimming or wrestling. After a year and a half of swimming training, we filmed in the Olympics pool, 15 feet deep.
Did your preparation change your lifestyle for good?
I can’t go back to my old habits. I keep calculating how much calories I need and how much needs to be burnt. The preparation for CC helped me understand what is good for health. I’ve grown used to cauliflower rice and still enjoy it. While we used to prefer heavy dinners, my mindset has changed. I believe this lifestyle is attainable for anyone.
Will CC be a turning point film in your career?
I definitely consider it a turning point. I’m sure audiences will love the film. I have already got a reward, as my thinking and lifestyle have changed. My approach to life has changed. I now introspect and think back too.
How much do you love your craft?
I love it more than myself. I am known for rom-com films but I opted for a real film and the choice may shock my fans, but after CC I always think about how to better my craft.
Which is your priority — genres or scripts?
I don’t look for any particular genre. I hear the narrations and if I like the script, I choose it irrespective of genre.
What do you feel about box-office pressure?
I feel pressure due to past success and high expectations. But I’ve learned that each film has its journey and audience. We shouldn’t calculate based on genre. Chandu Champion is new for me, a serious underdog story. The trailer’s reception raised expectations. Murlikant Petkar’s tale is unsung and needs telling.
After all your successes, do you count yourself a Bollywood insider now?
No, I don’t feel I am an insider. I feel I am a Lone Warrior.
“I can’t go back to my old habits. I keep calculating how much calories I need and how much needs to be burnt. The preparation for CC helped me understand what is good for health.”
