"Chhaava" tries to pay tribute to the legacy of Sambhaji Maharaj via grand battle sequences, emotionally charged moments and a visually enhanced presentation. Yet, despite strong performances, the film has been criticized for its pacing problems and long run-time. Its historical representation also stirred controversy and even led to riots in Nagpur on March 17, 2025.
Does "Chhaava" live up to expectations, or does it falter under the weight of its ambitions? Let's dive into a detailed review.
Movie Details and Background
Title:
Chhaava (2025)
Director:
Laxman Utekar (known for Luka Chuppi and Mimi)
Producer:
Dinesh Vijan (Maddock Films)
Writer:
Based on Shivaji Sawant’s Marathi novel Chhava
Music Composer:
A.R. Rahman
Cinematography:
Mitesh Mirchandani
Production House:
Maddock Films
Genre:
Historical, Action, Drama
Release Date:
February 14, 2025
Runtime:
2 hours 41 minutes
Cast:
Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale
Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb
Ashutosh Rana in a supporting role
The film was marketed as an epic historical drama, with grandeur similar to Tanhaji (2020) and Padmaavat (2018). However, controversy arose over its historical accuracy, forcing the removal of a dance sequence. The movie’s societal impact became more pronounced when riots erupted in Nagpur on March 17, 2025.
Plot Summary
"Chhaava" focuses on the life and struggles of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj from 1681 to 1689, following the death of his father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The story highlights:
Sambhaji Maharaj’s defiance against the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and his tireless struggle to safeguard the Maratha Empire.
This will probably involve political intrigue, betrayal and warfare as he struggles against outside threats and internal dissent.
His wife, Yesubai Bhonsale, brings emotional depth to the story.
The massive battle sequences depict the strategic brilliance of the Maratha army.
While the film tries to maintain historical authenticity, some plot points feel predictable. Nonetheless, it keeps audiences engaged with a mix of high-octane action and emotional drama.
Performances: Who Stole the Show?
Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj
✅ Strengths:
Strong screen presence, embodying the fierce warrior and the caring king.
His body transformation and gritty action sequences are realistic.
Emotionally charged moments showcase his versatile acting skills.
🛑 Weaknesses:
Some dialogues feel overly dramatic.
Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale
✅ Strengths:
Her character is deep, graceful and poised.
Her chemistry with Vicky Kaushal is a notch up, however.
🛑 Weaknesses:
Limited screen time, leaving her character underdeveloped.
Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb
✅ Strengths:
Cunning and strategic depiction of the Mughal emperor.
His dialogues are pointed and potent.
🛑 Weaknesses:
Some moments could have been explored more to add layers to his character.
Supporting Cast
Ashutosh Rana and other actors contribute well to the film, helping to enhance the narrative.
Direction & Screenplay: Hits and Misses
✅ What Works
Laxman Utekar’s grand vision is evident in the scale, battles, and emotional core.
The film respects Sambhaji Maharaj’s legacy, bringing his courage and leadership to the forefront.
🛑 What Doesn’t Work
The 2-hour-41-minute runtime feels excessive, especially in the middle act.
Some scenes drag, reducing the impact of key moments.
Despite its flaws in pacing, the film succeeds in its emotional storytelling.
Music & Background Score: A.R. Rahman’s Impact
✅ Strengths
Powerful war drums and Marathi folk music create a thrilling cinematic experience.
Emotional tracks enhance Sambhaji Maharaj’s struggles.
🛑 Weaknesses
Some songs feel misplaced, disrupting the flow.
Overall, A.R. Rahman’s score is memorable, but not his best work.
Cinematography & Visual Effects: A Visual Spectacle
Cinematography by Mitesh Mirchandani
Stunning landscapes, grand palaces, and well-executed battle sequences.
The color palette enhances the historical setting.
Visual Effects
✅ Strengths:
Epic war sequences feel immersive.
🛑 Weaknesses:
Some CGI elements could have been better polished.
Despite minor flaws, the visuals are a treat for history lovers.
Editing & Pacing: A Flawed Execution
✅ What Works
The climax is tightly edited, delivering an emotional punch.
🛑 What Doesn’t Work
Pacing that is uneven, leaving some sections feeling drawn out.
This would have made for a more engaging watch with a tighter edit.
What Works & What Doesn’t
Pros:
✔ Vicky Kaushal’s performance, chilling and masterfully taut.
✔ The cinematography is visually captivating, and the battle sequences are impressive.
✔ Powerful character development with emotional narratives.
✔ Epic feel thanks to the epic music score
Cons:
❌ Overlong; slow-moving at times.
❌ Plot beats some might expect.
❌ Songs stuck where they don’t belong, breaking the narrative flow.
Final Verdict: Is Chhaava Worth Watching?
“Chhaava” is a film with impressive visuals, and magnificent performances, Vicky Kaushal in particular. The movie depicts Sambhaji Maharaj’s bravery and struggles and offers a treat for historical drama lovers. But pacing problems and predictability keep it from being a perfect masterpiece.
But if you enjoy big historical action movies like “Tanhaji” or “Padmaavat,” you should see this movie.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨☆ (3.5/5)
What did you think of Chhaava (2025)? Did Vicky Kaushal’s performance impress you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
