A saffron response to Bollywood’s green narrative : Chhaava

The Hindi film Chhaava has played a crucial role in rejecting the profane Valentine’s Day tradition. For the first time, this movie has brought the world’s attention to the unparalleled bravery, immense courage, unwavering loyalty to Swarajya, and deep religious devotion of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, while also exposing the ruthless cruelty of the Mughals. Director Laxman Utekar has slapped a saffron response to Bollywood’s long-standing trend of mocking Hindu Dharma, Deities and traditions, misrepresenting Hindu history, and falsely portraying Muslim terrorists with Hindu identities. For this remarkable cinematic achievement, Utekar and his team deserve hearty congratulations !

Until now, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s history was largely confined to Maharashtra. Some Muslim-appeasing political forces had discreetly opposed TV serials based on his life. Films like Sambhaji 1689 were deliberately stalled due to a lack of funding, and Marathi cinema was kept under secularist control. While Marathi filmmakers have tried to break these chains in recent years, their success remained limited. However, Chhaava has shattered these barriers and delivered a resounding slap to secularists. At a time when youth are immersed in dreamy notions of Valentine’s Day, this film has compelled them to reflect on Sambhaji Maharaj’s extraordinary dedication to the nation and the Dharma. Laxman Utekar, a seasoned director, has successfully taken the legend of Sambhaji Maharaj beyond the seven seas !

– Compiled by : Mr Sagar Nimbalkar, Kolhapur

1. Highlights of the film

A. The film is based on Shivaji Sawant’s famous novel Chhaava, with a carefully curated selection of events. The dialogues by Rishi Virmani and Irshad Kamil are sharp and instill a warrior spirit.

B. The film briefly introduces Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and quickly immerses viewers in the first battle scene.

C. While the movie initially shows the secular aspect of Sambhaji Maharaj, it does not promote secularism. Unlike some films that falsely depict Shivaji Maharaj’s army as having a significant Muslim presence, Chhaava stays true to history.

D. The battle scenes captivate the younger generation while successfully conveying Sambhaji Maharaj’s gallantry, tactics and strength. The guerrilla warfare strategy of the Marathas is prominently showcased.

E. Aurangzeb’s ruthless, conspiratorial, and oppressive nature is depicted with chilling accuracy. The film effectively highlights the Mughal tradition of fratricide and betrayal to seize power.

F. Villains like Ganoji and Kanhonji Shirke, who betrayed Sambhaji Maharaj, evoke strong resentment among the audience.

G. All the battle sequences in the movie have been depicted exceptionally well. The Battle of Sangameshwar and the pitiful condition of the Mughals while capturing Sambhaji Maharaj have been especially impactful. The roars of Sambhaji Maharaj, both during that time and after being captured, resonate throughout the cinema hall. Unlike other films that insert sensational scenes merely to glorify the protagonist, these sequences feel intense and authentic because they are touched by Sambhaji Maharaj’s unparalleled valour, truthfulness, and devotion to Dharma.

H. While the movie begins with the victorious saga of Sambhaji Maharaj, as it nears its conclusion, it compels every viewer to bow their heads in respect for his immense sacrifice. The same youth who cheer and whistle at the sight of his triumphant chariot in the beginning are left speechless upon witnessing his torture. It stirs the hearts of the audience, igniting fury against the Mughal brutality and evoking an emotional outburst for the Hindavi Swarajya.

2. Unforgettable performances

A. Vicky Kaushal has delivered the finest performance of his career in portraying Sambhaji Maharaj. The efforts he put in—gaining weight, learning sword fighting, and horse riding—are clearly visible. It feels as if Sambhaji Maharaj has become a part of his very being, such is the realism in his acting. His fierce rage after being captured, his unyielding warrior spirit even as his body is torn apart, the fire in his eyes despite his tongue being cut, his unwavering patriotism, and his profound devotion to Dharma captivate the audience. Vicky Kaushal deserves special mention as one of the most talented, dedicated, and immersive actors of this generation.

B. Akshaye Khanna has brilliantly portrayed Aurangzeb, showing how a seemingly calm old man can turn ruthless and merciless when provoked. His performance fuels the audience’s resentment towards the Mughal mindset.

C. Rashmika Mandanna plays Maharani Yesubai. She effectively portrays the essence of a Hindu queen—her fierce determination, sharp political acumen, keen judgement of people, unwavering principles, and strength in setting aside personal grief for the greater good of Swarajya. Rashmika has successfully embodied all these shades of the character.

D. Among other actors, Ashutosh Rana (as SarsenapatiHambirrao Mohite), Vineet Kumar Singh (as Kavi Kalash), Divya Dutta (as Maharani Soyarabai), and Santosh Juvekar (as Rayaji Malge) have delivered powerful performances.

3. Other important aspects

A. Sambhaji Maharaj’s entire character in the film is an inspiration. His leadership, decision-making skills, pride in Dharma, patience, indomitable willpower, warrior spirit, Brahmatej (Radiance of a Brahman), and unwavering faith in God offer valuable lessons. The film also highlights how internal traitors can be more dangerous than external enemies.

B. The film’s music and background score, composed by A.R. Rahman, elevate its intensity. The song Toofan, dedicated to Sambhaji Maharaj, is powerful and perfectly suited to the scenes. Overall, the music enhances the film’s impact, making it a compelling experience.

C. The cinema halls are already adorned with saffron flags. Groups of Hindu youths, dressed in saffron attire and carrying flags, are enthusiastically chanting praises of Shivaji Maharaj and Shambhuraje as they enter the theatres. The thunderous cheers during Shambhuraje’s entry and the absolute silence at the end of the film reflect the deep emotional connection of the Hindu audience. This film, which has overshadowed Valentine’s Day with a wave of Hindutva, deserves gratitude from every Hindu. However, it should also be noted that anti-Hindu and Aurangzeb sympathisers might find reasons to attack Hindu patrons. Hence, viewers should remain cautious and vigilant while watching the film.

4. Special congratulations to the visionary behind the film – Laxman Utekar !

Laxman Utekar’s direction in this film is exceptional. His deep admiration for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is evident in every scene. He has respectfully upheld Hindu religious sentiments while ensuring that secularists and Aurangzeb sympathisers find no opportunity for criticism. By maintaining the integrity required in filmmaking, he has successfully delivered this saga of valour to audiences worldwide without hindrance. Utekar has outshone filmmakers who glorify so-called warriors like Alexander, whose staged battles are marketed globally for profit.

Special appreciation goes to Utekar for including a significant scene, however brief, that showcases Shambhuraje’s unwavering religious devotion. In this moment, Aurangzeb attempts to lure Shambhuraje into converting, but instead, the brave king invites Aurangzeb to join his group. This scene serves as a powerful saffron counter to Bollywood’s long-standing trend of being manipulated by underground religious fanatics, where they distort narratives by assigning Hindu names to terrorists.

5. Appeal to all

A film like this is made once in a lifetime. Despite the existence of numerous novels on this topic, no one had dared to bring forth the brutal reality of the fanatic Mughal rulers—until now. This film could mark the beginning of cleansing Bollywood of its biased narratives. As devoted followers of Shivaji Maharaj and Shambhuraje, we must watch this film and honour their legacy. Additionally, watching the film in theatres will provide financial encouragement to the filmmakers, further promoting such efforts. Parents should ensure that children watch this film to instill in them a sense of patriotism and pride in their culture and heritage !