Review by Navin Singh Bhardwaj: India has a vast and rich history with every state and city having its own tales of bravery. Many films and series have been made on these historical warriors, allowing us to get a glimpse of their stories. Through these films, we get to know about the historical figures who have shaped our country. From Maharana Pratap and Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan in the north to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the south, their stories inspire us. Whenever we hear about their bravery, we realise how they sacrificed their lives for the honour of their country and people.
One such historical warrior is Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, whose story has been brought to the big screen by producers Dinesh Vijan and Laxman Utekar. We are talking about the film Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna and Rashmika Mandanna. The movie is based on Shivaji Sawant’s novel “Chhava”. Read our review of Chhaava here:
Story:
The story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is indeed very interesting and inspiring. Set in the 17th century, the movie showcases the time period when Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb was in power. After the demise of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, his son Sambhaji Maharaj took over as the emperor of the Marathas.
When Aurangzeb received the news of Sambhaji taking over the throne of the Marathas, he was furious. Sambhaji attacked the areas under Mughal control and incorporated them into his kingdom. Aurangzeb marched towards the Maratha Empire with his entire army to defeat Sambhaji and establish his rule again. Sambhaji Maharaj was also prepared to face Aurangzeb’s army. This story is thrilling and inspiring, and watching it on the big screen will be a different experience altogether. So, if you want to know more about this story, head to the theaters and watch it on the big screen!
Direction, Writing And Music:
Chhaava marks the second collaboration of Vicky Kaushal and director Laxman Utekar after the success of Zara Hatke Zara Backe in 2023. Laxman has done a good job in direction and has also given the voiceover of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the film.
In the beginning of the film, the story of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has been presented through Ajay Devgn’s voiceover. But the entire story juggles between being slow and going on a fast track in the first half. Censor Board also reportedly asked the makers to cut many scenes in Chhaava. However, it cannot be confirmed if the problem in film’s pace is because of Censor Board or editor Manish Pradhan. It can definitely be said that a lot of effort was made in writing and to ensure that sentiments were not hurt.
The film will keep you at the edge of your seat only during the climax. From the war scene of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to the atrocities being committed against him, the movie will give you goosebumps. The film’s dialogues are also good, for which Rishi Virmani and Irshad Kamil deserve credit.
Talking about music, the legendary music composer AR Rahman has taken over the music department in this film. The film’s background score or its songs were not impressive as they should be. As the story is about the life of a Maratha King, something feels missing in the background score. The same music is repeated several times and it didn’t feel good.
Acting:
Vicky Kaushal’s hard work is reflected on the big screen as he was fully immersed in the character of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. On the other hand, seeing Akshay Khanna in the character of Aurangzeb will also be surprising and enjoyable. Rashmika Mandanna has made every effort to play the role of Maharani Yesubai but something feels missing in her performance. Divya Dutta has played the role of Rajmata Soyarabai and Ashutosh Rana is seen as her brother and Senapati Hambirrao Mohite. Both the actor have played their characters exceptionally well. Vineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash deserves praise for his performance. Diana Penty as Aurangzeb’s daughter Zeenat-un-Nisa Begum did not get a chance shine in the film.
Final Verdict:
Chhaava, released on Valentine’s Day, is the story of one of India’s greatest warriors. Everyone should watch this film, based on the biography of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
3 stars out 5 for Chhaava
