February 16, 2025: Laxman Utekar’s Chhaava is an ambitious attempt to bring the story of Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant son of Chhatrapati Shivaji, to the big screen. With Vicky Kaushal in the lead role, the film is packed with high-octane battle sequences, intense political drama, and an overarching theme of resistance. But does it do justice to history, or does it blur the lines between fact and fiction?
The Story: Legacy, War, and Betrayal
The film opens with a fierce Maratha raid on a Mughal settlement, establishing Sambhaji’s (Vicky Kaushal) character as a fearless warrior. Determined to uphold his father’s vision of Swaraj, he faces relentless attacks from the ruthless Aurangzeb (Akshaye Khanna) and betrayals within his own court. His stepmother (Divya Dutta) conspires against him, while his devoted wife (Rashmika Mandanna) stands by his side through it all.
The movie traces his victories and losses, highlighting his courage and strategic brilliance. However, the climax takes a dark and brutal turn with his capture, leading to prolonged sequences of torture at the hands of Aurangzeb—scenes that push the limits of on-screen brutality.
The Highs of Chhaava : Vicky Kaushal’s Powerhouse Performance & Stunning Cinematography
Vicky Kaushal is the film’s beating heart. He delivers a commanding performance, capturing both the warrior’s fire and the leader’s emotional depth. His battle cries, sword fights, and quieter moments of introspection make Sambhaji a compelling character. Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb is another standout, bringing a menacing yet measured presence to the screen.
The battle sequences are visually breathtaking. From guerrilla-style attacks in the forests to large-scale warfare, the film delivers on action. The cinematography captures the grandeur of 17th-century India, immersing the audience in the chaos of war.
The Lows: One-Sided History & Excessive Violence
The biggest flaw of Chhaava is its simplistic portrayal of history. The film presents the Marathas as pure heroes and the Mughals as merciless villains, stripping the narrative of complexity. While Aurangzeb was undoubtedly a brutal ruler, the lack of nuance in his characterization makes the story feel more like a patriotic fable than a layered historical account.
Additionally, the excessive violence—especially in the extended torture scenes—feels more exploitative than necessary. The film’s relentless brutality, particularly in the final act, overshadows its storytelling, making it an exhausting watch.
Verdict: A Visually Stunning but Flawed Historical Drama
Chhaava is an epic spectacle that thrives on Vicky Kaushal’s magnetic performance and breathtaking battle sequences. However, its black-and-white approach to history and overindulgence in violence prevent it from being a truly balanced historical drama. It’s a must-watch for fans of grand war films, but for those seeking depth and nuance, it may leave much to be desired.
Rating: 3/5
