A day after receiving his maiden National Film Award, Kartik Aaryan visited Mumbai’s Lalbaugcha Raja on Wednesday to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings. What made the visit special was that the actor carried the prestigious award with him and placed it at the feet of the deity.
Kartik Aaryan places his National Award at Bappa’s feet
Videos from the pandal show Kartik arriving with his National Award and taking it close to the idol. He was seen touching the award to Bappa’s feet before offering his prayers. The actor also posed for photographs with the honour in front of Lalbaugcha Raja.
The visit came just a day after Kartik was honoured at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony held in Gujarat. He received the Best Actor award for his performance as Paralympic gold medallist Murlikant Petkar in Chandu Champion. Kartik shared the honour with veteran Malayalam actor Mammootty, who was recognised for his performance in Bramayugam.
SPOTTED 🚨:#KartikAaryan visited Lal Baghcha Raja with his National Award 🙌 pic.twitter.com/kawcgeUBUx
— Bollywood Talkies (@bolly_talkies) September 23, 2026
For Kartik, the National Award marks a significant milestone in his acting journey. After the win, the actor shared an emotional note on social media, describing the achievement as a dream he had carried for years. He also looked back at his journey from Gwalior to receiving one of Indian cinema’s most prestigious honours.
On receiving the National Award honour
Kartik had previously spoken about the challenges of stepping into the shoes of Murlikant Petkar for Chandu Champion. The film, directed by Kabir Khan and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, chronicles the life of India’s first Paralympic gold medallist. Following his win, Kartik credited the filmmaker and producer for trusting him with the role and acknowledged the support of his parents, friends and team.
The actor also dedicated the achievement to Paralympians and people who continue to pursue their dreams despite challenges.
His latest visit to Lalbaugcha Raja comes as part of a tradition that Kartik has followed over the years. He has regularly visited the iconic Mumbai Ganpati pandal during the festive season. In 2024, too, he sought Bappa’s blessings and shared pictures from his visit, writing, “He is back… and so am I for his blessings.”
Interestingly, this is not the first time Kartik has sought divine blessings after a major career milestone. In July, after the National Film Awards were announced, he visited the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain with his parents. He had won the Best Actor honour for Chandu Champion alongside Mammootty.
Now, with the National Award in hand, Kartik has once again turned to faith, placing the honour before Lalbaugcha Raja and seeking Bappa’s blessings for the journey ahead.