At a pivotal moment in Chhaava, Vicky Kaushal, portraying Chhatrapati Sambhaji, is engulfed by an unrelenting zeal for Swaraj. His character, undeterred by the fallen warriors around him, continues battling, bringing the film to life in an electrifying sequence. Unfortunately, the journey to this crescendo is marred by inconsistencies, testing the viewer’s patience.
About Chhaava
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava chronicles the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire, played by Vicky Kaushal. The film showcases his resistance against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb (Akshaye Khanna), who vows not to wear his crown until Sambhaji is vanquished. Adapted from Shivaji Sawant’s novel Chhaava, the movie embraces the grandeur expected of historical war dramas—majestic sets, fierce war cries, and authenticity in props—all contributing to a visually immersive experience.
Strengths and Shortcomings
While Chhaava boasts a large-scale production, its first half struggles to create an emotional connection. The grandeur fills the screen, yet the impact is missing. Vicky Kaushal’s introduction as the valiant Sambhaji—rescuing a child amid a battlefield—sets a heroic tone, but the film takes time to build real emotional depth. The prolonged action sequences, though intense, verge on monotony.
However, the performances anchor Chhaava and guide it towards redemption. Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal of Aurangzeb adds menace, bringing tension into the narrative. Vicky Kaushal embodies Sambhaji with conviction, his authoritative stance and raw aggression adding authenticity. The film truly shines in its final hour, particularly in the gripping confrontation between Vicky and Akshaye.
Akshaye’s nuanced performance is heightened by the detailing in prosthetic aging, capturing his character’s bruised ego and steely resolve. Among the female characters, Rashmika Mandanna’s Yesubai has moments of emotional depth, though her accent falters. Diana Penty’s Zeenat could have been more intimidating, while Divya Dutta’s Soyrabai—despite a powerful role—has minimal screen time. Her antagonistic arc had the potential for greater impact.
Chhaava misses an opportunity to differentiate itself by overindulging in battle sequences rather than exploring the tension in verbal confrontations. Instead of relying on constant war cries, a subtler approach could have elevated the storytelling.
Technical Aspects
Viineet Kumar Singh delivers a strong performance as Kavi Kalash, complemented by Irshad Kamil’s poetic dialogues. However, AR Rahman’s music lacks memorability, with the background score leaving a stronger impression than the songs.
Final Verdict
Chhaava had the potential to be a stirring tribute to Sambhaji’s valor and sacrifice. However, excessive editing flaws and the superhero-like portrayal of its protagonist hinder its impact. The film resonates best in moments of human vulnerability, but its over-reliance on spectacle dilutes the emotional connection. The irony remains—Chhaava shines brightest in its quieter, more intimate moments, yet struggles to break free from the trappings of a conventional war drama.