A grateful Kartik Aaryan lays his National Award at Bappa's feet at Lalbaugcha Raja
A day after winning his first National Award for Best Actor, Kartik Aaryan visited Mumbai’s Lalbaugcha Raja to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings. The actor, who was honoured for his performance in Chandu Champion, carried his National Award to the pandal and placed it at the deity’s feet. Sharing a photo from Lalbaugcha Raja, Kartik expressed his gratitude to Bappa.
Kartik was seen at the Lalbaugcha Raja pandal on Wednesday wearing a traditional kurta. He offered prayers before placing the award before Lord Ganesha. He later shared a picture from his visit on social media.
Sharing the photograph, Kartik wrote, “My Sukh-karta dukh-harta. Blessed beyond words. Thank you Bappa!!” Kartik Aaryan wins National Award for Chandu Champion
Kartik received the Best Actor honour at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony held in Gujarat on Tuesday. He shared the award with veteran actor Mammootty, who was recognised for his performance in Bramayugam.
In Chandu Champion, Kartik played Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist. Directed by Kabir Khan, the 2024 sports biopic also starred Vijay Raaz, Bhuvan Arora, Yashpal Sharma and Rajpal Yadav.
Although the film did not perform strongly at the box office, Kartik’s performance was widely praised.
After receiving the award, the actor shared a video of the moment his name was announced on stage. Reflecting on the achievement, he recalled his journey from Gwalior and his early dream of becoming an actor.
“Looking back affectionately with a smile at that mumma’s boy from Gwalior who dared to dream of becoming an actor,” he wrote.
Calling the National Award a dream for actors across the country, Kartik added, “A dream of a small town boy...the dream of every actor in the country...The National Award for Best Actor.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan)
He also thanked director Kabir Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala for trusting him with the role of Murlikant Petkar.
Kartik described the experience of playing the Paralympic champion as challenging but rewarding. He also said he wanted to dedicate the honour to Paralympians across the country and to people who continue to pursue their dreams despite setbacks.
The actor credited his parents, friends and team for supporting him throughout his journey. He said their belief and encouragement helped him during moments when he doubted himself.
Kartik will next be seen in Naagzilla, a fantasy comedy directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. He will play an icchadhari naag (shape-shifting snake) in the film, which is backed by Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films.
The film, which was earlier expected to release in 2026, is now scheduled to hit theatres on February 12, 2027.- EndsPublished By: shweta keshriPublished On: Sep 23, 2026 16:33 IST
