Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has praised the Vicky Kaushal-starrer Chhaava as a cinematic masterpiece that illuminates the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the courageous son of Maratha Empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Speaking to reporters after attending a special screening organized for MLAs and MLCs in Mumbai on Wednesday, Fadnavis said, “The movie ‘Chhaava’ highlights the bravery and intelligence of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and that historians didn’t treat him well. After watching the film during the screening organised for MLAs and MLCs in Mumbai, he congratulated the moviemakers for portraying the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Talking to reporters at the special screening of the movie organised by minister Aditi Tatkare, Fadnavis described the film as ‘very nice’, which, he said, creates awareness of the life and times of the warrior king.” His remarks underscore a belief that Sambhaji Maharaj’s legacy has been undervalued historically, a narrative the film seeks to redress.
Directed with grandeur and historical resonance, Chhaava has soared past Rs 625 crore at the box office, solidifying its status as a blockbuster sensation. The film features an ensemble cast including Diana Penty, Neil Bhoopalam, Ashutosh Rana, and Divya Dutta, with Vicky Kaushal delivering a riveting portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj. It chronicles his fierce resistance against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s conquest of the Deccan region, culminating in his tragic capture, brutal torture, and execution in 1689—a defining moment in Maratha history.
The special screening, hosted by state minister Aditi Tatkare, took place amid a political storm sparked by suspended Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi’s remarks praising Aurangzeb. This controversy has amplified Chhaava’s cultural significance, positioning it as a powerful counter-narrative that celebrates Sambhaji Maharaj’s defiance against Mughal rule.
Historically, Sambhaji’s reign (1680–1689) was a period of relentless struggle to safeguard the Maratha Empire from external threats. Yet, his contributions have often been overshadowed by his father’s legacy or critiqued in historical accounts—a perspective Fadnavis and the film challenge. With its gripping storytelling and stellar performances, Chhaava has struck a deep chord with audiences, reigniting pride in Sambhaji Maharaj’s indomitable spirit.
As Maharashtra embraces this cinematic tribute, Chhaava stands as both a commercial triumph and a cultural milestone, reminding viewers of a warrior king whose bravery and intelligence, as Fadnavis noted, deserve a brighter spotlight in history.