Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar, is a period drama that delves into the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, portrayed by Vicky Kaushal. The narrative centres on Sambhaji’s challenges as Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, played by Akshaye Khanna, seeks to expand his empire and vows to defeat Sambhaji. As per Hindustan, the film is an adaptation of Shivaji Sawant’s novel Chhava and features grand war scenes and meticulously designed frames. However, the first half struggles to establish a strong connection with the audience, with prolonged action sequences that could have been more concise. While A.R. Rahman’s music is adequate, the background score stands out, enhancing the film’s atmosphere.
In terms of performance, Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal of Aurangzeb is commendable, bringing depth to the antagonist’s role and adding intrigue to the narrative. Vicky Kaushal delivers a compelling performance as Sambhaji, capturing his character’s intensity and determination. The female characters, though pivotal, have limited screen time. Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai shines in her role, showcasing a commendable accent and presence. Diana Penty as Jinaat could have been more impactful, while Divya Dutta’s portrayal of Soyrabai, though interesting, deserved more screen time to explore her character’s complexities. Overall, Chhaava offers a visual spectacle and strong performances, making it a worthwhile watch for those interested in historical dramas.
Why every Hindu should watch this movie
As Hindus, watching Chhaava is not just about experiencing a historical film; it is about acknowledging a past that has been deliberately erased or distorted for centuries. The Mughals ruled Bharat for over 300 years, during which they invaded, plundered, and unleashed untold brutality upon Hindus—destroying temples, forcibly converting people, and committing unspeakable atrocities against women. Their reign of terror extended deep into the Konkan and present-day Mangaluru regions, where they crushed local resistance and enforced their oppressive rule.
For decades, Bollywood has whitewashed Mughal history, glorifying them while silencing the suffering of Hindus. However, just as The Kashmir Files dared to reveal the brutal truth of the Kashmiri Pandit genocide, Chhaava boldly exposes the horrifying reality of Mughal tyranny under Aurangzeb. Director Laxman Utekar has shown immense courage in depicting the relentless resistance of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who fought till his last breath to protect Dharma and Swarajya. This is a must-watch for every Hindu who values truth, history, and the sacrifices of our ancestors.
The climax, which runs for over 20 minutes, captures the intense final moments after Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is captured. The director masterfully highlights the exceptional war strategies and combat techniques employed by the Marathas to resist the Mughals. However, the betrayal by his own uncle leads to his capture, marking the beginning of his brutal torture at the hands of Aurangzeb’s forces. The film does not shy away from depicting the extreme cruelty inflicted upon Sambhaji, showcasing his unwavering courage until his last breath.
The film’s concluding scenes are packed with powerful dialogues that emphasize Sambhaji’s resilience and the brutal reality of Mughal oppression. Unlike mainstream Bollywood narratives, which often distort history with a Hinduphobic and anti-Hindu bias, Chhaava remains unapologetic in presenting historical truths. While some critics have labelled it Islamophobic, the reality is that the film merely portrays well-documented historical facts—truths that are difficult for some to accept rather than outrightly deny. Ultimately, Chhaava is a must-watch for those who seek an honest depiction of history, free from the distortions of political correctness.
