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Chhaava Review: Movie Cast Vicky Kaushal Shines in Tribute to Sambhaji

Chhaava movie review – Vicky Kaushal delivers a powerful performance in this tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Read the full review, release date & more!
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Have you ever seen a lion's shadow fleeing from the paws of dogs?" This powerful dialogue from Chhaava sets the tone for Vicky Kaushal’s roaring performance as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava is not just another period drama—it’s an emotional tribute to one of the bravest warriors in Indian history. Packed with intense battle sequences, gripping political intrigue, and soul-stirring dialogues, the film brings to life the fierce resistance of Sambhaji Maharaj against the mighty Mughal empire.

With Vicky Kaushal in top form, Akshaye Khanna as a formidable Aurangzeb, and Rashmika Mandanna portraying Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale, this historical epic promises to leave audiences spellbound. And let’s not forget AR Rahman’s music, adding another layer of grandeur to this cinematic spectacle.

But does the film truly capture the essence of the Maratha warrior? Let’s dive into the review!

Chhaava movie review

Chhaava Release Date

Chhaava is already released in theaters on Valentine's Day, 14th Feb, bringing the legendary story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to the big screen. Fans of historical dramas and Vicky Kaushal’s powerful performances can mark their calendars for this grand cinematic experience.

Story Of Chhaava 

A scene in Chhaava features Vicky Kaushal portraying Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, asking, ‘Have you ever seen a lion's shadow fleeing from the paws of dogs?’ This pretty much encapsulates the bravery, valor, and fierceness of the courageous Maratha fighter. The movie tells the tale of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son Sambhaji, who shared the same aspiration for Swaraj that his father fought and perished for. The film successfully conveys this central message perfectly, fostering a feeling of patriotism and admiration for the Maratha ruler.

The story starts with the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, leading the Mughals to think that the Maratha empire is weak and that they can dominate the whole Deccan region. Nevertheless, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (Vicky Kaushal) acts as a barrier to thwart this scheme by becoming the most formidable adversary of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb (Akshaye Khanna). Nonetheless, both Aurangzeb and Sambhaji must contend with court intrigues, betrayals, and treachery on their journey to achieve Swarajya.

Chhaava Movie Review

The film's screenplay avoids wandering into irrelevant subplots or melodrama, remaining focused on its core message. The conversation, particularly at the peak, not only sends chills down your spine but also prompts you to shout with excitement. Whether it's Sambhaji grinning at Aurangzeb and saying, ‘Hum Maratho Ki Taraf Aa Jao, Zindagi Badal Jayegi Aur Dharm Bhi Badalna Nahi Padega’ or Vineet Kumar Singh's Kavi Kalash responding to the Mughals with, ‘Mera Ghosht Apne Kutton Ko Zaroor Khilana Taaki Unko Wafadari Seekhne Ko Mile.

The main emphasis is on the warfare and political tactics that the Maratha warrior devised to thwart the Mughal scheme. An intense portrayal of Sambhaji and his troops launching an attack on the Mughal army by merging with their surroundings and fully exploiting their understanding of the Maratha empire resonates deeply.

Nonetheless, the depiction of the Mughal ministers can occasionally become cliché. A bit more emphasis on the writing regarding the court politics scenes would’ve enriched the film's core, as it was also noted as a significant obstacle in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s journey. Nonetheless, these slight imperfections are balanced out by powerful performances and the technical elements resonating well.

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Aurangzeb Brought To Life

Akshay Khanna as Aurangzeb in chhaava

Akshaye Khanna has embodied this role just as Vicky Kaushal did as the monarch. From the gait to the delivery of lines and his fierceness, Khanna convinces you that he truly embodies Aurangzeb. The actor has undergone a remarkable transformation, and it is fair to say that no one else could have portrayed the character as well as Khanna did in the movie. Khanna clearly demonstrates through his posture and appearance that he is the genuine monarch of the Mughal empire.

Rashmika Mandanna As Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale

Rashmika Mandanna as Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale in Chhaava

In addition to the performances of these two pillars, another significant role in the film is portrayed by Rashmika Mandanna, who takes on the character of Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale, also known as Chhatrapati Maharani. The actor has worked hard to embody a Maratha queen, and her depiction of the queen is something that will distinguish her. With powerful dialogue delivery and a touch of innocence in her gaze, Laxman Utekar has excelled once again with an impeccable casting choice for the film.

The Rahman Effect

When discussing monarchs, who can overlook the tale of King Midas, who transformed anything into gold with a mere touch? Indeed, this is precisely what AR Rahman accomplishes with his music and score. The film's theme song, Aaya Re Toofan, in addition to the two heartfelt tunes, Jaane Tu and Zinda Rahey, positions this album as a prime candidate for music awards. Nonetheless, the background music may transport you to Jodha Akbar, as it occasionally resembles it in certain aspects.

In summary, the movie, created by Dinesh Vijan under the banner of Maddock Films, successfully encapsulates the essence of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and highlights the importance of his legacy for people globally.

Chhaava Box Office Collection Day 1 Prediction

Due to continuous speculation surrounding the box office performance of Chhaava, film industry analyst Rohit Jaiswal, in a special interview with Filmibeat, mentioned that the historical action movie aims for an impressive opening with an estimated collection of Rs 22-25 crores on its first day (day 1/ first Friday).

If the reports are confirmed, Chhaava is anticipated to be Vicky Kaushal's biggest opening film. This isn't everything. The film is expected to be the top opener of 2025. It will be fascinating to observe how many records Chhaava will set at the box office in the upcoming days.

Chhaava is a gripping tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, brought to life by Vicky Kaushal’s powerful performance. With intense storytelling, stellar performances, and mesmerizing music, the film is a must-watch for history lovers and cinema enthusiasts alike.

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