‘Chhaava’ rampage: Vicky Kaushal’s powerhouse act or the stirring historical past—What’s driving its unstoppable run? – Exclusive | Hindi Movie News

Some movies entertain, some go away a mark, after which there are these uncommon cinematic experiences that shake audiences to their core—’Chhaava‘ is one among them. Ever since its launch on February 14, the Laxman Utekar directorial has been greater than only a field-workplace success; it has been a phenomenon. People are leaving theaters in tears, visibly shaken, unable to place into phrases the feelings they’ve simply skilled. The movie is not simply enjoying on the large display—it’s unfolding in the hearts of the viewers.
At the forefront of this emotional storm is Vicky Kaushal, whose portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is nothing wanting a revelation. His efficiency is so highly effective, so deeply immersive, that audiences are discovering themselves transported into the seventeenth century, feeling the weight of his sacrifices, the hearth of his valor, and the ache of his battle. But ‘Chhaava’ isn’t nearly one efficiency—it’s a few legacy, a historical past that pulses by means of each body of the movie.

On the different hand, the Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna-led historic drama isn’t simply dominating the Indian field workplace—it’s creating waves abroad too. Fans are actually demanding a worldwide launch after being swept away by this grand interval spectacle.
With an ensemble solid that includes powerhouse performers like Divya Dutta, Ashutosh Rana, Kiran Karmarkar, and Diana Penty, to call a couple of, the movie has shattered a number of information and refuses to decelerate. In truth, Chhaava has turn into Bollywood’s greatest field-workplace opener submit-lockdown. But what’s actually fueling this cinematic juggernaut? Is it Vicky Kaushal’s commanding efficiency, or is it the emotional weight of historical past that’s leaving audiences shaken and introspective?
Today’s Big Story dives deep into the phenomenon—what precisely makes ‘Chhaava’ an unmissable expertise? We additionally uncover unique insights into the true story behind Raje’s seize at Sangmeshwar, revealing how occasions actually unfolded. Details towards the finish of the article.

Ashutosh Rana as Sarsenapati Hambirao and Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Ashutosh Rana, who performed a pivotal character of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s maternal uncle (Mama), Sarlashkar Hambir Rao Mohite, mirrored, “There are several reasons why ‘Chhaava’ is doing well. The film has history, performance, music, emotions, action, and grandeur. But beyond all that, it is the towering character of Sambhaji Maharaj that truly makes it stand out. This is not an unknown history—everyone knows about it, many have written about it, and that’s how the film was made.People love revisiting the past, just like reminiscing about school days. Similarly, the story of this great warrior is deeply connected to people’s hearts. These were warriors for whom Swarajya and their Raje meant more than even their blood relationships. Beyond history, the film boasts spectacular action, music that elevates the experience, and emotions embedded in every frame. The dialogues strike the right chords, amplifying the impact of each scene. And, of course, the performances, combined with the towering personality of Raje, make ‘Chhaava’ a cinematic experience to remember.”

Divya Dutta as Rajmata Soyarabai
Etimes additionally contacted Divya Dutta, who portrayed Soyarabai, mom to stepmother to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj; the actress was elated to share her stance as she shared, “Chaava’ tells an important story from our history that needed to be told. It’s wonderful to see audiences connect so deeply with Sambhaji Maharaj’s story, his strength, and his valor. Apart from the deeply moving story, the performances, of course, have worked in favor of the film. Vicky has put his heart and soul into the character, and the appreciation he is getting for living the character is something he truly deserves.

Ashish Pathode, who performed Antaji, believes, “Chhaava owes its success to each Vicky Kaushal’s highly effective efficiency and the movie’s capability to deliver an untold chapter of historical past to life.“This film proves that the sacrifices of brave warriors like Sambhaji Maharaj will never be forgotten. The swarajya that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj envisioned was upheld by his successors, and their legacy continues to inspire generations.” The movie’s world recognition is one other supply of pleasure for the group. “We are receiving appreciation from all over the world. Chhaava has touched not just Indian audiences but also people across different countries, celebrating the glory of Sambhaji Maharaj. It is an honor to be part of such a significant project, and we are grateful for this overwhelming response,” he concluded.
Film commerce analyst Girish Wankhede highlights the uniqueness of ‘Chaava,’ which presents a contemporary perspective on historical past. The movie explores the lifetime of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who endured brutal torture at the arms of the Mughals for 45 days. While the broad story is understood, the movie’s climax offers a strong emotional connection.
Based on Shivaji Sawant’s novel Chaava, the movie portrays Sambhaji Raje as a fierce warrior and expert combatant, whereas additionally depicting his vulnerability throughout captivity. His bond with a poet throughout this era provides emotional depth, revealing lesser-recognized points of his character. The movie not solely sheds mild on Sambhaji Maharaj but additionally presents Shivaji Maharaj in a deeply humanized method.
Vicky Kaushal’s compelling efficiency brings authenticity to the position, capturing each the energy and turmoil of Sambhaji Maharaj. His expressions and physique language convey the king’s resilience, whereas the robust supporting solid, together with Vinit Kumar, enhances the movie’s emotional affect.
The grand manufacturing, meticulous set design, and historic authenticity transport audiences to the period, making the movie greater than only a historic retelling—it’s an immersive expertise. The movie’s success lies in its balanced storytelling, stellar performances, and excessive manufacturing values, guaranteeing that Sambhaji Maharaj’s legacy is remembered and celebrated.

History straight from the coronary heart of the historic land
ETimes reached out to Sathish Lingayat, a priest and lengthy-time resident of Kasba, Sangameshwar. The Lingayat household has lived in Kasba for generations and possesses deep data of the area’s historical past. Coming from such a traditionally wealthy place, Mr. Lingayat is impressed by the movie and was delighted to share some fascinating insights about Sangameshwar, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and the seize of Raje.
He recounted, “Our Raje had come to Sangameshwar to resolve a dispute between the Yadav brothers, and they had planned their meeting at Sardesai Wada. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, along with his wife, Maharani Yesubai, stayed here. However, soon after, the second Senapati of the Maratha Empire, Shrimant Malojirao Ghorpade, who had taken charge after the demise of the first Senapati, Hambirrao Mohite, informed Raje that the Mughals were advancing towards Sangameshwar. Understanding the urgency of the situation, Senapati Maloji urged Raje to leave immediately. Sambhaji Maharaj decided to depart and instructed the Yadav brothers to meet him at Raigad, assuring them that their dispute would be resolved there.
However, the Yadav brothers were displeased and expressed their doubts about receiving justice under Swarajya. Moved by their concerns, Raje chose to stay back in Sangameshwar longer to ensure their grievances were addressed. Meanwhile, he directed Maharani Yesubai to leave for Raigad. The Mughals continued their rapid advance. When they were dangerously close, Malojirao Ghorpade once again warned Maharaj to escape immediately. But Raje, being the true leader he was, refused to abandon his Senapati and decided to stay by his side. What followed at Tulapur and the Vadu River is history—known to all.”
Speaking about Sambhaji Maharaj’s legacy, Lingayat expressed, “Sambhaji Maharaj’s greatness is so immense that just building a smarak (memorial) is not enough. People must also recognize his literary contributions—the books he wrote and the knowledge he possessed.”
He additionally spoke about Sardesai Wada, the place from the place Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was taken away by the Mughals—with out anybody in the village realizing that their Raje was being captured.
“The Wada, along with several nearby temples in Sangameshwar, was demolished by the Mughals. It was later rebuilt by the Peshwas, but today, it stands abandoned, neglected, and forgotten. This is a piece of our history that we must preserve and protect.”