The Roar Before the Storm
In early 2025, the Indian film industry anticipated Chhaava, a historical epic focusing on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Shivaji Maharaj. Directed by Laxman Utekar and starring Vicky Kaushal as the lead, Chhaava was expected to offer a cinematic representation of Maratha pride and sacrifice. With the grandiose promotional material leading up to the trailer, there was foreshadowing of a major cinematic experience. Most people expected a magnum opus.
The excitement surrounding Kaushal’s casting, who had just found fame with Uri and Sardar Udham, was expected. His dedication was evident as he transformed into the rugged Maratha king for the role, complete with long hair, a beard, and a battle-ready demeanor which was deemed praise-worthy. Rashmika Mandanna, known for her work in Pushpa and Goodbye, was another fresh addition to the historical drama.
The Tale Unfolds
Chhaava explores Sambhaji Maharaj’s complicated personal sacrifices for his kingdom in addition to his battles with the Mughal empire. While the narrative focuses on his fierce battles, it also depicts Sambhaji’s moments of introspection as a son, a husband, and a king, burdened by the duty of a warrior.
The film’s screenplay, based on a novel by Shivaji Sawant, attempts to fuse Sambhaji’s action and emotionally conflicted warfare. Central to the plot are Sambhaji’s relentless drive to honor his father, the oppressive Mughal empire, and his disintegrating relationships with his family. Nonetheless, while the action in this film had high emotional stakes, it was the emotional conflict that some critics felt was insufficient to elicit audience engagement.
Characters and Performances
Rashmika Mandanna, playing the role of a pivotal character, showcased her versatility. While her character’s arc was secondary to Sambhaji’s, her performance added a layer of emotional complexity to the narrative.The film’s depth was attributed to supporting actors, even to seasoned portray. However, some felt that specific roles were underused and that their potential was lost.
Cinematic Brilliance and Shortcomings
Chhaava is a sight to behold. The battle sequences are elaborate and are a product of fine choreography and high-quality CGI. The film’s cinematography is impressive, depicting the rugged terrains of 17th century India, and immersing the audience in the period. The musical score made by A.R. Rahman also added something, a great enhancement in the film’s emotional and dramatic moments to the visuals.
Some critics, however, pointed out issues with the pacing of the film. The action sequences were thrilling, but the emotional parts of the story took too long in parts and finally, the film became drawn out in the eyes of some audience members who felt it should be shorter.
Real-Life Parallels and Performers’ Journeys
Vicky Kaushal’s preparation to Sami and portraying Sambhaji Maharaj was a echoed the character’s. Known for his dedication, Kaushal trained extensively in all aspects to prepare for the role, taking on the physicality and mentality of a Maratha warrior. He transformed for the role. There were stories of him spending hours in makeup and costume to reach a realistic appearance.
Rashmika Mandanna’s career change from the South Indian film industry to Bollywood posed unique challenges as she worked on a character from a Bollywood film requiring her to master a historic role. She conducted a lot of language and performance research to her role emphatically and accurately .
Streaming and Beyond
Chhaava is one of the biggest blockbusters of 2025, surpassing the ₹600 crore mark, and while Chhaava is a commercial success, it is not without controversy. Historians and some cultural communities have complained about the representation of history in the film on the events and personages of the history. Every film is open to some creative liberties and this film sparked the debate about how much of history should a film dramatization keep.
The film was released in the middle of a politically charged discourse about the controversial use of history. This provoked conversations around how filmmakers should consider the socio-political climate while dealing with history.
The Challenges of Chhaava
Chhaava Chhaava was the first Bollywood commercial success for historic role of director Laxman Utekar. He was exposed to the pressure of history, the first of his losses, and the increasing commercial insecurities of history. There were reported instances of divided thoughts, one for the history and the other for a modern relevance.
The sheer volume of CGI and set construction created challenges of their own. The scenario was set in difficult and remote terrains, with inconvenient and hostile weather, in order to capture the landscape reflective of the Maratha empire.
Chhaava is the perfect example of the issues and realities of filmmaking whereby the ambition of the creators is clearly evident. It is inspired by a crucial part of Indian history, although presented with a modernized approach. It ignited a discussion which is precisely what the creators set out to achieve. It did not reach the level of epic status that many anticipated, but nonetheless, it ignited a discussion on history, identity, and the role of cinema in the construction of these topics.
If you want to evoke even more Indian feelings, storytelling elements, and nostalgia to read it like a Filmfare or Cine Blitz feature, I can do that for you too. The version would include more cultural elements, emotional storytelling, and cinematic nostalgia.