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Chhaava Movie (2025): Vicky Kaushal’s Fierce Portrayal of Sambhaji Roars Through History
n 2025, Bollywood is set to revive the spirit of valor, sacrifice, and resistance with one of the most anticipated historical dramas of the decade — “Chhaava.” Helmed by filmmaker Laxman Utekar, this grand cinematic venture is not just a biopic, but a tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the warrior son of Shivaji who fought till death for Swarajya. Vicky Kaushal steps into the mighty shoes of Sambhaji, while Rashmika Mandanna plays his wife, Yesubai. Together, they bring alive a poignant tale of love, leadership, and loyalty.
Who Was Chhatrapati Sambhaji?
Chhatrapati Sambhaji was the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, ascending the throne after the death of his father, the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Known for his strategic brilliance and unwavering resistance against the Mughal Empire led by Aurangzeb, Sambhaji’s life was one of relentless warfare and sacrifice. His brutal execution by the Mughals remains a chilling reminder of the price of sovereignty.
Chhaava Movie Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Laxman Utekar |
| Lead Actor | Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji |
| Lead Actress | Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale |
| Genre | Historical, War Drama |
| Release Date | Expected Late 2025 |
| Production House | Maddock Films |
| Language | Hindi |
| Runtime | ~2 hours 45 minutes (estimated) |
Vicky Kaushal: A Powerful Casting Choice
Following his success in Uri and Sardar Udham, Vicky Kaushal is no stranger to intense, patriotic roles. However, portraying Sambhaji demands a unique blend of aggression, intelligence, and emotional depth. Early stills and teasers suggest that Vicky has physically transformed himself — adopting the look of a true Maratha warrior with long hair, traditional armor, and fierce eyes.
Vicky himself stated in an interview:
“Playing Sambhaji Maharaj is an honour beyond words. He wasn’t just a king; he was a force of resilience. Chhaava is my most spiritually enriching role yet.”
Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai
Popularly known for her bubbly roles in Pushpa and Animal, Rashmika Mandanna takes a dramatic turn in Chhaava. As Yesubai Bhonsale, she portrays the emotional backbone of Sambhaji — a woman who stood firm even as her husband faced immense political and military pressure. Rashmika’s role is expected to challenge her range as an actress, offering her a role filled with strength and pathos.
Behind the Scenes: Direction and Production
Director Laxman Utekar, known for lighter films like Luka Chuppi and Mimi, surprises audiences with a shift to historical storytelling. His dedication to authenticity, including consulting Maratha historians and employing traditional Marathi war choreography, adds credibility to Chhaava’s narrative.
Costume designer Veera Kapur Ee and music composer Amit Trivedi are set to enhance the film’s period flavor. The production team has reportedly recreated Raigad Fort, war camps, and Mughal dungeons on massive sets in Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
The Significance of the Title “Chhaava”
“Chhaava” translates to “The Cub” — a metaphor used by Shivaji to describe his brave son. Sambhaji, often overshadowed in history books, is regarded by Maratha loyalists as the rightful heir to Shivaji’s legacy. This film seeks to reclaim his space in Indian consciousness, especially for newer generations unfamiliar with his martyrdom.
Storyline (No Spoilers)
While the full screenplay remains under wraps, here’s what’s expected:
- The story will begin with Sambhaji’s childhood and rigorous education in Sanskrit and military science.
- It will trace his strained relationship with his stepmother Soyarabai and his controversial ascension to the throne.
- The bulk of the movie will focus on his 9-year resistance against Mughal forces and the betrayal that led to his capture.
- The emotional and brutal climax will depict his martyrdom — a painful reminder of the cost of freedom.
Why Chhaava Matters Today
In an age of political polarization and identity struggles, Chhaava is more than just entertainment. It’s a cinematic reminder that freedom is never free — it comes at the cost of blood, strategy, and unbreakable will. Sambhaji’s refusal to convert despite excruciating torture resonates in today’s climate of ideological battles.
Music and Cinematography
The soundtrack is expected to include:
- War chants and Maratha dhol-tasha
- A love ballad featuring Yesubai and Sambhaji
- A climactic patriotic anthem
Cinematographer Avinash Arun, known for his work in “Paatal Lok” and “Drishyam 2,” has taken the visual narrative to grand proportions—epic aerial shots, war sequences, and candlelit palace scenes lend gravity and scale to the drama.
Audience Reactions and Hype
Even before its release, Chhaava has sparked:
- Debates on historical representation
- Massive support from Maharashtrian youth
- Trending hashtags like #Chhaava2025, #VickyAsSambhaji, and #MarathaPride
Film critics have already marked it as a potential National Award contender if the execution matches the vision.