The film Chhaava, featuring star performances by Vicky Kaushal and Akshaye Khanna, is making significant waves at the box office, garnering attention not only for its storytelling but also for the controversies it has stirred. Released on February 14, 2025, this historical period drama, helmed by director Laxman Utekar, has quickly become one of the year's biggest hits, recently surpassing the monumental ₹400 crore mark and continues to fascinate audiences across India.
Diving deep, the film explores the life and final days of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the Maratha emperor Shivaji Maharaj, and his obedient companion, Kavi Kalash—a poet and warrior. Celebrated for his administrative skills and poetic prowess, Kalash, played by Vineet Kumar Singh, encapsulates the spirit of loyalty and bravery. The film’s raw representation of the brutalities faced by both men under Mogul emperor Aurangzeb's regime has rendered it both impactful and emotionally stirring.
Yet, alongside its cinematic achievements, Chhaava became embroiled in controversy. Direct descendants of Ganoji and Kanhoji Shirke have raised serious objections, claiming the film's depiction misrepresents their ancestry, claiming it not only tarnishes reputations but also opens the floodgates for potential legal battles with threats of ₹100 crore defamation suits against the filmmakers. Director Laxman Utekar responded quickly to these claims with an apology, showcasing the sensitivities tied to historical narratives.
While Chhaava is being celebrated by many, its portrayal of history—particularly the torture scenes involving Sambhaji Maharaj—is generating deep emotional responses. Historically, Sambhaji Maharaj led fierce campaigns against Mughal forces, displaying audacious bravery, especially during the Deccan Wars. His reign, albeit short, was pivotal for the Maratha Empire. Unfortunately, history records his imprisonment and gruesome execution at the hands of Aurangzeb's army after enduring unspeakable torture.
Details surrounding Sambhaji’s capture reveal significant violence: his torture included gorging of eyes, ripping of his tongue, and being cut apart alive, only for his severed limbs to be desecrated post-mortem. Together with Sambhaji, Kavi Kalash suffered similar fates, facing brutal torture methods to force their conversion to Islam. Yet they remained unwavering, choosing death over betrayal. Even as their heads were displayed to instill fear, Dalit communities reportedly paid homage to the fallen warriors by reconstructing their bodies for proper burial rites.
The beauty of Chhaava lies not only within its gripping narrative but also its poignant poetic moments. A scene between Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji and Vineet Kumar Singh’s Kavi Kalash stands out as particularly haunting. “Jaa rahe hain. Aapke shatruo ke chot par lagne. Humne kaha tha hum namak hain Maharaj,” Kalash declares. Sambhaji poignantly replies, “Tum namak nahin chandan ho Kavi. Tum tilak hamare maathe ka.” This exchange captures their camaraderie and deep respect, encapsulating the emotional heart of the film and bringing audiences to tears.
Vineet Kumar Singh has expressed gratitude over the audience reception, sharing how Chhaava has transformed his life and career, amplifying his recognition and appreciation throughout the industry. “After Chhaava, it feels like I am experiencing something new...I have never felt this way,” Singh remarked, reflecting on the overwhelming love from fans. He recounted how children hug him, viewing him almost like family, as fans respond to the emotional depth of his character.
Overall, Chhaava not only chronicles the valor of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Kavi Kalash but also ignites discussion about the representation of history through cinema. It presents more than just entertainment—it’s about remembrance of heroes who sacrificed everything for their beliefs and their legacy which resonates deeply with today's audiences.