“Chhaava,” directed by Laxman Utekar, is a Hindi-language historical drama that delves into the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Released on February 14, 2025, the film stars Vicky Kaushal in the titular role, with Rashmika Mandanna portraying Maharani Yesubai, and Akshaye Khanna as the antagonist, Aurangzeb
Chhaava” is an adaptation of Shivaji Sawant’s Marathi novel “Chhava,” which translates to “Lion’s cub.” The narrative chronicles the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, highlighting his valor, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Maratha Empire. The film portrays his struggles against the Mughal Empire, his personal sacrifices, and his enduring legacy in Indian history.
Cast and Performances
- Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Kaushal delivers a compelling performance, embodying the strength and resilience of the Maratha king. His portrayal has been lauded for its intensity and authenticity.
- Rashmika Mandanna as Maharani Yesubai: Mandanna brings depth to the role of Yesubai, showcasing the emotional strength and support she provided to Sambhaji Maharaj.
- Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb: Khanna’s portrayal of the Mughal emperor adds a nuanced layer to the film, presenting a formidable adversary to the protagonist.
- Supporting Cast: The ensemble includes Ashutosh Rana as Hambirao Mohite, Divya Dutta as Soyarabai, and Vineet Kumar Singh as Santaji Ghorpade, each contributing significantly to the film’s narrative.
Direction and Cinematography
Laxman Utekar’s direction ensures a seamless blend of historical accuracy and cinematic storytelling. The film’s pacing effectively balances action sequences with emotional depth. Cinematographers Saurabh Goswami and Aaditya Raj Sharma capture the grandeur of the Maratha Empire, with sweeping battle scenes and intimate character moments.
Music and Soundtrack
The musical score, composed by A.R. Rahman, complements the film’s epic scale. The soundtrack enhances the emotional and dramatic moments, with tracks that resonate with the film’s themes of valor and sacrifice.
Positive Reviews:
- Amit Bhatia of ABP Live awarded the film 4 out of 5 stars, stating, “The film makes you feel as though you’ve traveled back in time, immersing you in the grandeur and grit of history.”
- Rishil Jogani of Pinkvilla praised the film, noting, “Chhaava is a commendable effort by Laxman Utekar to bring the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to the screen with reverence and intensity.”
- Bollywood Hungama rated the film 4 out of 5 stars, describing it as “a gripping historical spectacle that not only pays a fitting tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj but also enthrals with its powerful storytelling, breathtaking battle sequences, grand visuals and stellar performances.”
Box Office Performance
On its opening day, “Chhaava” earned ₹31 crore net in India, indicating a strong start at the box office.
Conclusion
“Chhaava” stands as a significant addition to Indian historical cinema, offering a vivid portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s life and legacy. While it has garnered both acclaim and criticism, the film’s compelling performances, especially by Vicky Kaushal, and its grand scale make it a noteworthy watch for enthusiasts of historical dramas.
