Chhaava’s Netflix Debut: A Tale of Triumph, Turmoil, and Missed Opportunities

Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava, a cinematic tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has made its much-anticipated debut on Netflix after a record-breaking theatrical run. While the film’s arrival on the streaming platform has reignited interest in the Maratha warrior’s legacy, it has also opened the floodgates to a mix of admiration and controversy.

Kaushal’s performance as Sambhaji Maharaj continues to earn accolades, with viewers praising his ability to embody the warrior’s courage and emotional depth. Social media is abuzz with fans calling his portrayal 'career-defining' and 'fire incarnate.' Rashmika Mandanna’s portrayal of Maharani Yesubai has also garnered appreciation, though many feel her character deserved more prominence in the narrative.

Netflix’s decision to stream only the Hindi version of Chhaava has left Telugu-speaking audiences disappointed. Despite the film’s multilingual theatrical release, the absence of regional language options on OTT has sparked a wave of criticism online. Fans have flooded social media with demands for Tamil and Telugu versions, calling the move a missed opportunity to reach a broader audience.

During its theatrical run, the film’s depiction of Sambhaji Maharaj’s execution by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb had reignited debates over historical accuracy. While some viewers appreciated the film’s attempt to shed light on Sambhaji’s sacrifices, others criticised it for oversimplifying complex historical events.

The controversy spilled over into political discourse, with the film being cited as a contributing factor to communal unrest in parts of Maharashtra. Historians have also raised concerns about inaccuracies, with one reportedly facing threats for pointing them out.

Beyond language limitations, critics have pointed to the film’s uneven pacing and lack of depth in key characters. AR Rahman's music also received some backlash.

Despite its flaws, Chhaava remains a cinematic celebration of Sambhaji Maharaj’s legacy, bringing his story to a global audience. As Netflix considers viewer feedback, the platform may update its language offerings to cater to regional audiences.

Overall, the film continues to spark conversations about history, representation, and the challenges of balancing artistic vision with historical storytelling.