Based on Shivaji Sawant’s revered Marathi novel Chhava, Chhaava (2025) takes on the monumental task of narrating the life and legacy of Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant and often overlooked Maratha king. With Vicky Kaushal stepping into the armor of Sambhaji, the film ambitiously straddles the historical action genre, offering both grandeur and gore, devotion and defiance. While some cinematic liberties spark historical debates, there’s no denying the film’s sheer scale and emotional heft.
Plot & Performance
The film opens with a powerful message—Shivaji Maharaj may have left, but the lion cub remains. As Aurangzeb rejoices at the death of Shivaji, a brutal awakening follows when Sambhaji attacks Burhanpur in a fiery display of Maratha strength. From this gripping beginning, the narrative hurtles through palace conspiracies, brutal Mughal massacres, betrayal from within, and Sambhaji’s relentless pursuit of Swaraj.
Vicky Kaushal delivers one of the most intense performances of his career. His Sambhaji is not just a warrior but a deeply human figure—conflicted, fiery, loyal, and tragic. Whether it's tearing apart a lion with bare hands or facing blinding torture without flinching, Kaushal embodies the Maratha spirit with stunning conviction.
Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai is graceful and restrained, portraying silent resilience and devotion. Akshaye Khanna plays his political chessboard with finesse, adding complexity to the film’s layered betrayals. The ensemble cast complements the central performances, creating a vibrant, if at times dramatized, historical tableau.
Direction, Music & Cinematography
Laxman Utekar’s direction blends poetic visuals with powerful action sequences. Though the film at times drifts into mythic hero-worship, it’s this very tone that defines its impact. The lion symbolism, recurring throughout, works effectively as both a literal and figurative metaphor.
A.R. Rahman’s music elevates the film to another plane. “Aaya Re Toofan” is a thundering war cry, while “Jaane Tu” offers a poignant counterpoint. The background score, with its fusion of Marathi folk and Rahman’s signature orchestral arrangements, builds emotional momentum without overwhelming the narrative.
The cinematography captures the sweeping Deccan landscapes, bloody battlefields, and candle-lit royal corridors with artistic flair. The IMAX format only amplifies the visual majesty.
Historical Accuracy & Controversy
No historical drama escapes scrutiny, and Chhaava is no exception. While dramatization is expected, some critics and historians have raised concerns over factual liberties taken in portraying events, particularly the nature and timing of betrayals and character motivations. However, what the film lacks in textbook precision, it attempts to compensate for with thematic integrity—valor, sacrifice, and the indomitable fight for freedom.
Box Office & Cultural Impact
Released on February 14, 2025, Chhaava stormed the box office, collecting over ₹800 crore worldwide, making it not only the highest-grossing Indian film of 2025 but also one of the top-grossing Hindi films of all time. The film’s sweeping success—despite polarizing reviews—demonstrates the powerful pull of emotionally driven historical epics, especially when rooted in regional pride.
Where to Watch & Explore More
Following its theatrical success, Chhaava is now streaming on Netflix. But for those who want more than just a viewing experience, Movie Ka Ticket highly recommends checking out the MovieKaTicket Films Review App, which offers exclusive insights, trivia, and critical analyses for films like Chhaava.
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Final Verdict
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Chhaava is a bold cinematic salute to an unsung hero of Indian history. While it may not satisfy purists, it certainly inspires patriotism and admiration for Sambhaji Maharaj’s fierce legacy. Vicky Kaushal’s performance is monumental, A.R. Rahman’s music is hauntingly epic, and the visuals are pure grandeur.
This is not just a film—it’s a war cry. Watch it with your heart wide open and let the spirit of the lion cub stir your soul.