Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan's physical transformation in Kabir Khan's sports drama Chandu Champion, released last year, garnered significant recognition.
The actor had to effectively portray Murlikant Petkar, India's first Paralympic gold medalist, as a professional boxer and swimmer.
It was fitness coach Rahul Bhatt, the son of famous director Mahesh Bhatt, who was responsible for this transformation.
In an interview with Hindi Rush, Rahul Bhatt spoke about the process of prepping Kartik Aaryan for Chandu Champion, and also how their working relationship grew over time.
"He had no basis in strength training. He also had to practice boxing, which requires a distinct skill set. He also had to swim. So he accomplished a difficult task. He is not an athlete. He's not Tiger Shroff or one of those guys. But he pulled it off," Rahul said. He applauded Kartik's dedication despite not having an athletic background.
Rahul revealed that things did not start off well with Kartik. "He’d doubt me a little in the beginning. I didn’t get along with him, like say I did with Aamir (Khan). You have to get along in this business. You have to surrender to your coach. That comfort has to be there. He was very respectful, very punctual, a thorough professional again," he said.
"There are a lot of things I’ve learnt from him, like self-promotion. Baap ka baap hai, dadaji hai, ye sab cheez mein (he aces the PR game). But I can’t do what he can. Only he can do it. That’s what it takes to be a movie star in today’s time. If that’s what it takes, then I’m not fit to be anything. I’m fit to be a pehelwan (bodybuilder) only,” he stated.
Despite their early conflicts, Kartik impressed Rahul with his attitude and work ethic.
"He was incredibly courteous, prompt, and a true professional. There are several things I've learned from him, including self-promotion. He is the king of public relations. But I can't do what he does. Only he can accomplish it. That is what it takes to be a movie star today. If that's what it takes, I'm not cut out to be anything. "I'm only fit to be a pehelwan (bodybuilder)," Rahul said, noting Kartik's talent for branding and public presence.
Rahul Bhatt is a fitness coach, actor, and television personality well-known for his commitment to physical fitness and transformation.
Rahul Bhatt, the son of noted director Mahesh Bhatt and brother of actress Pooja Bhatt, first rose to prominence with his presence on Bigg Boss 4 in 2010.
He was in the Bigg Boss house for five weeks, which is hosted by Salman Khan.
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