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‘Chhaava,’ the much-anticipated historical drama, has hit theatres today, bringing to life the tale of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant Maratha ruler. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film boasts a stellar cast, including Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji, Rashmika Mandanna as his wife Yesubai, and Akshaye Khanna portraying the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The film is produced by Dinesh Vijan under the banner of Maddock Films.
Set in the late 17th century, ‘Chhaava’ chronicles the life of Sambhaji Maharaj following the death of his father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The narrative delves into Sambhaji’s ascension to the throne, his relentless battles against the Mughal empire, and his unwavering commitment to the Maratha kingdom’s sovereignty. The film portrays his strategic acumen, personal sacrifices, and the challenges he faced in his quest for self-rule (swarajya).
The film has elicited a spectrum of responses from critics:
- The Times of India commends Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal, stating, “Vicky Kaushal delivers a towering performance despite the film having its flaws.” The review acknowledges the film’s imperfections but highlights Kaushal’s compelling depiction of the Maratha warrior.
- Scroll.in offers a more critical perspective, describing the film as ‘a brutally violent version of Maratha history.’ The review points out the film’s aggressive tone and the exhaustive portrayal of historical events, suggesting that the relentless violence may be overwhelming for some viewers.
- Film Companion praises the film’s production values, noting, “The cinematography and set designs authentically recreate the era, immersing the audience in the 17th-century Maratha empire.” However, it also mentions that the screenplay could have delved deeper into character development.
- Bollywood Hungama highlights the performances, stating, “Rashmika Mandanna brings grace to the role of Yesubai, while Akshaye Khanna’s Aurangzeb is menacing and impactful.” The review also appreciates the film’s musical score, which complements the intense narrative.
Audience Reactions
Early audience reactions mirror the critics’ divided opinions. Many viewers have lauded Vicky Kaushal’s dedication to the role, with social media platforms abuzz with praise for his transformation into the Maratha warrior. Some have expressed reservations about the film’s pacing and the depiction of violence, suggesting that certain scenes might have been toned down for a broader audience appeal.
Box Office Prospects
Given the film’s star power and the historical significance of its subject matter, ‘Chhaava’ is poised for a strong opening at the box office. Advance bookings indicate a positive trend, and it remains to be seen how word-of-mouth will influence its sustained performance in the coming weeks.
‘Chhaava’ offers a cinematic journey into a pivotal chapter of Maratha history, driven by powerful performances and grand visuals. While it may polarise viewers due to its intense portrayal of historical events, the film stands as a testament to the bravery and resilience of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. For those interested in period dramas and Indian history, “Chhaava” presents a compelling watch.
Image courtesy Instagram @vickykaushal09
