In the annals of Indian cinema, few films have dared to capture the tumultuous and valorous life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. “Chhaava,” directed by Laxman Utekar and starring Vicky Kaushal in the titular role, embarks on this ambitious journey, aiming to bring the Maratha warrior’s legacy to the silver screen. Released on February 14, 2025, the film has garnered significant attention, both for its cinematic achievements and the controversies it has sparked.
Plot and Narrative Structure
“Chhaava” chronicles the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, focusing on his ascension to the throne after Shivaji Maharaj’s demise, his relentless battles against the Mughal Empire, and his unwavering commitment to the Maratha sovereignty. The narrative delves into Sambhaji’s personal struggles, his relationship with his wife, Maharani Yesubai (portrayed by Rashmika Mandanna), and his confrontations with Mughal emperor Aurangzeb (played by Akshaye Khanna).
The screenplay, co-written by Laxman Utekar, Rishi Virmani, Kaustubh Savarkar, Unman Bankar, and Omkar Mahajan, attempts to balance historical events with dramatic flair. The film spans a runtime of 161 minutes and 50 seconds, offering a comprehensive look into the pivotal moments of Sambhaji’s life. However, some critics argue that the narrative occasionally sacrifices depth for spectacle, leading to a portrayal that, at times, feels more cinematic than authentic.
Performances
Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj stands as the film’s cornerstone. Known for his dedication to his craft, Kaushal embodies the Maratha king with a blend of intensity and vulnerability. His commitment is evident in the battle sequences, where his physicality shines, and in quieter moments that explore Sambhaji’s internal conflicts. Despite this, some viewers have noted that Kaushal’s Marathi accent lacks authenticity, which slightly detracts from the character’s regional grounding.
Rashmika Mandanna delivers a commendable performance as Maharani Yesubai, capturing the strength and resilience of the queen. Her on-screen chemistry with Kaushal adds emotional depth to the narrative, particularly in scenes that explore their partnership amidst political turmoil.
Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal of Aurangzeb brings a nuanced antagonism to the story. His restrained yet menacing performance provides a formidable counterpoint to Kaushal’s Sambhaji, highlighting the ideological and personal clashes between the two historical figures.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Laxman Utekar, known for his work in films like “Luka Chuppi,” ventures into the historical genre with “Chhaava.” Utekar’s direction showcases a clear passion for the subject matter, evident in the grandiose set designs and elaborate battle sequences. However, the film has faced criticism for certain creative liberties, such as a controversial dance sequence featuring Sambhaji and Yesubai, which some argue undermines the historical gravitas of the characters.
Cinematographer Saurabh Goswami captures the Maratha landscape with sweeping shots of forts, dense forests, and expansive battlefields. The visual palette employs rich, earthy tones that evoke the era, while dynamic camera movements during action scenes immerse the audience in the chaos of war.
Music and Soundtrack
The musical maestro A.R. Rahman composes the film’s score, infusing it with a blend of traditional Marathi folk elements and contemporary orchestration. The soundtrack features songs penned by lyricists Irshad Kamil and Kshitij Patwardhan. Notable tracks include “Jaane Tu,” a romantic ballad sung by Arijit Singh, and “Aaya Re Toofan,” an energetic number that underscores the film’s action sequences.
Rahman’s score adeptly complements the film’s emotional and dramatic beats, although some critics feel that certain musical choices, particularly in the dance sequences, may not align seamlessly with the historical context.
Controversies and Criticisms
“Chhaava” has not been without its share of controversies. The aforementioned dance sequence drew ire from certain sections of the audience and political figures, leading to protests and demands for the film to be reviewed by historical experts prior to its release. Maharashtra’s Minister of Marathi Language, Uday Samant, emphasized the need for an expert review to ensure the film’s historical accuracy, stating that any content disrespecting Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj would not be tolerated.
Additionally, some viewers have criticized the film for omitting references to “Hindavi Swarajya,” a term integral to the Maratha identity, and for the perceived inadequacy of Marathi accents among the cast. These criticisms highlight the challenges filmmakers face when balancing artistic expression with historical fidelity.
Conclusion
“Chhaava” endeavors to pay homage to one of Maharashtra’s revered figures, bringing Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s story to a broader audience. While the film excels in performances, particularly Vicky Kaushal’s earnest portrayal, and boasts high production values, it grapples with the delicate task of honoring historical truths while crafting an engaging cinematic experience. The controversies surrounding its release underscore the responsibility filmmakers bear when depicting historical subjects, especially those held in deep cultural and regional esteem.
For audiences, “Chhaava” offers a visually compelling and emotionally resonant journey into a pivotal chapter of Maratha history. However, viewers seeking a strictly accurate historical account may find certain creative liberties taken by the filmmakers contentious. As with any historical drama, “Chhaava” serves as a starting point for further exploration and understanding of the rich tapestry of India’s past.