Kartik Aaryan places his first National Award at Lalbaugcha Raja's feet

Kartik Aaryan took his first National Award straight to Lord Ganesha. The actor visited Mumbai's famous Lalbaugcha Raja pandal on Wednesday, soon after being named Best Actor for Chandu Champion, and placed the award at the deity's feet to give thanks.

Security staff and volunteers reportedly guided the actor through the huge crowd at the pandal. He bowed before the idol and prayed for Bappa's blessings, and reports say he wore a traditional kurta for the visit. Kartik later shared a picture from the pandal with the words, "My Sukh-karta dukh-harta. Blessed beyond words. Thank you Bappa!!" According to reports, he told the media it was a very happy moment for his family and loved ones.

The award honours his role as Murlikant Petkar, India's first Paralympic gold medallist, in Kabir Khan's biographical sports drama. Reports say he shared the Best Actor prize with Mammootty, who won for Bramayugam. Chandu Champion released in 2024, with Vijay Raaz, Bhuvan Arora, Yashpal Sharma and Rajpal Yadav in key roles. The film reportedly did not do well at the box office, but critics praised Kartik's performance.

In an emotional post about the win, Kartik thanked director Kabir Khan, producer Sajid Nadiadwala and his parents for their support. According to reports, he looked back on his early days as a boy from Gwalior who dreamed of acting, and said the journey was very painful but the result was sweet. He also said he wants to share the honour with every Paralympian in the country and with everyone who chases an impossible dream.

Kartik's next film is reportedly Naagzilla, a fantasy comedy directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, where he plays an icchadhari naag. The film is backed by Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films. It was first planned for 2026 and is now reportedly set to release on February 12, 2027.