Chhava, released on February 14, 2025, is a compelling historical action drama that delves into the life of Maratha king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, portrayed by Vicky Kaushal. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, the film is an adaptation of the acclaimed Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant.
The narrative chronicles the journey of Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, focusing on his battles, political strategies, and personal sacrifices. The film offers a deep dive into his confrontations with the Mughal empire, especially his tumultuous relationship with Emperor Aurangzeb, played by Akshaye Khanna.
Vicky Kaushal delivers a powerful performance as Sambhaji Maharaj, capturing the essence of the warrior king with intensity and depth. His portrayal brings forth the complexities of a ruler torn between duty and personal desires. Rashmika Mandanna, portraying Sambhaji’s wife, showcases a commendable improvement in her expressions, though there’s room for enhancement in her dialogue delivery. Akshaye Khanna, as Aurangzeb, emerges as the true scene-stealer. Despite limited dialogue, his commanding presence and nuanced performance add significant weight to the narrative.
Laxman Utekar’s direction brings a fresh perspective to historical storytelling, balancing grand battle sequences with intimate character moments. The cinematography captures the grandeur of the Maratha empire and the intricacies of 17th-century India, immersing the audience in a bygone era.
The legendary A.R. Rahman composes the film’s music, infusing the narrative with a rich and evocative score that enhances the emotional and dramatic beats of the story.
With a reported budget of ₹110 crore, Chhava is poised for a strong box office performance. Industry experts predict an impressive opening, with first-day collections estimated between ₹22-25 crore. To achieve hit status, the film needs to amass at least ₹120-130 crore during its theatrical run.
Chhava stands as a compelling historical drama that masterfully blends emotion, action, and political intrigue. Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj is both powerful and nuanced, anchoring the film with his performance. Akshaye Khanna’s depiction of Aurangzeb adds depth, making Chhava a must-watch for enthusiasts of historical cinema.
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