Chhaava (2025) – Movie Review

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava is a historical action film that brings to life the fierce and determined Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. Starring Vicky Kaushal in the lead role, with Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna also in key roles, the film is based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant. Released on February 14, 2025, Chhaava delves into the complexities of leadership, sacrifice, and the spirit of self-rule during a tumultuous period in Indian history.

Plot Overview

Chhaava chronicles the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, focusing on his unwavering commitment to swarajya (self-rule) and his resistance against the mighty Mughal empire. The film explores his personal and political struggles as he contends with the heavy burden of leadership while fighting to protect his kingdom. The narrative paints a picture of a man torn between his sense of duty and his desire for justice. The story is rooted in themes of valor, sacrifice, and the fierce loyalty that defined the Maratha warriors. While the film captures key moments from Sambhaji Maharaj’s life, including his capture, torture, and eventual martyrdom, it doesn’t shy away from highlighting his personal battles, relationships, and internal dilemmas.

Performances

• Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj: Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj is powerful and intense. His performance is marked by a deep sense of commitment to the role, channeling the strength, courage, and patriotism that defined the historical figure. Kaushal successfully conveys the anguish and determination of Sambhaji, capturing both his physical strength as a warrior and the emotional depth of a man burdened by his responsibilities. His commitment to the role stands as one of the film’s strongest aspects.
• Rashmika Mandanna: Rashmika Mandanna plays a significant role in the film, though her character does not have the depth or development that one might expect in a historical drama. While she brings grace and elegance to her role, her character feels more like a decorative presence than a substantive force in the narrative. Her scenes, though memorable, don’t contribute significantly to the emotional core of the film.
• Akshaye Khanna: Akshaye Khanna delivers a solid performance in his supporting role. His portrayal of a key figure in the film adds weight to the narrative, though his character feels somewhat underdeveloped. While Khanna is convincing in his role, certain character arcs, including his own, could have been fleshed out more to enhance the overall emotional impact of the story.

Direction and Cinematography

Laxman Utekar’s direction brings a grand scale to the film, especially in the battle sequences and the period details that aim for authenticity. Utekar’s vision to depict the fierce resistance against the Mughal empire is evident, but there are moments when the pacing falters. Some sections of the film feel prolonged or repetitive, and certain dramatic scenes could have been trimmed for tighter storytelling. The cinematography is striking, capturing the grandeur of 17th-century India and the dramatic landscapes that serve as a backdrop to the battles. However, some visuals can come off as exaggerated, taking away from the realism of the period.

Music

A.R. Rahman’s music for Chhaava brings grandeur to the film, underscoring the epic nature of the story. While the score is powerful, there are moments where it feels mismatched with the tone of the film. The music sometimes overshadows the narrative, making it feel out of sync with the emotional beats. While the soundtrack is beautiful, it doesn’t always serve the film’s pacing and tone as effectively as one might expect.

Critical Reception

The reception for Chhaava has been mixed, with both praise and criticism.

• Positive Aspects: Vicky Kaushal’s performance has been universally appreciated, with many critics lauding his portrayal of the Maratha king. His intensity and dedication to the role are key highlights of the film. The action sequences, while exaggerated at times, also stand out as thrilling and visually engaging. The film’s grand scale and depiction of Maratha pride resonate with those who appreciate historical epics.
• Critiques: The film has faced criticism for its historical accuracy. Some viewers pointed out that the film takes creative liberties that dilute the true essence of Sambhaji Maharaj’s life and struggles. The underdevelopment of certain characters, particularly Rashmika Mandanna’s role, left audiences wanting more depth. The film’s pacing, particularly in the second half, also drew some negative feedback, with parts of the narrative feeling slow or repetitive. Additionally, the film’s focus on the battle between greed and glory felt a bit simplistic, missing the chance to explore the complex layers of leadership, sacrifice, and political intrigue.

Conclusion

Chhaava is an ambitious historical drama that has the potential to become a cult classic for fans of epic storytelling. Vicky Kaushal’s commanding performance as Sambhaji Maharaj is the film’s standout, capturing the spirit of a warrior king fighting for his land and people. However, the film’s historical inaccuracies, pacing issues, and underdeveloped characters detract from its potential as a truly great film. While it succeeds in delivering grandeur and action, it falls short in providing a deeply immersive and historically accurate portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj’s life.

For those interested in historical dramas and Kaushal’s performance, Chhaava is worth a watch. However, those looking for a more nuanced exploration of Sambhaji Maharaj’s life might find the film lacking in depth. Despite its flaws, the film stands as an engaging tribute to a key figure in India’s history.

Rating: 3/5

Chhaava is an engaging epic that delivers on action and spectacle, but its historical liberties and pacing issues hold it back from achieving true greatness.