Chhaava Movie Analysis and Review: A Triumphant Yet Flawed Tribute to a Maratha Legend

On February 14, 2025, audiences were treated to “Chhaava,” a film that embarks on an ambitious journey to encapsulate the life and struggles of the Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Sambhaji. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film features the talented Vicky Kaushal in the Chhaava role and puts him against Akshaye Khanna, who portrays the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Based on Shivaji Sawant’s revered novel, the film aims to weave a tapestry of historical conflict, personal drama, and cultural identity. However, amid its lavish production and stellar cast, “Chhaava” struggles to maintain cohesion, resulting in an uneven portrayal of a complex saga. This review delves deep into the various elements of “Chhaava,” analyzing its narrative structure, character development, cinematographic choices, musical composition, and the historical ramifications depicted on screen.

Narrative Structure

“Chhaava” aims to encapsulate the full of turmoil saga of Sambhaji, who defied the Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb’s reign during the late 17th century. The film chronicles Sambhaji’s journey from a formidable warrior to a leader navigating the treacherous waters of betrayal, familial conflict, and warfare. The initial scenes introduce viewers to Sambhaji’s fierce spirit as he engages in combat, showcasing his valor through legendary actions, such as maiming a lion—an imagery rich with cultural symbolism that resonates through the lens of calendar art, a technique Utekar embraces due to his background as a cinematographer.

Despite the film’s grand narrative ambitions, it occasionally falters into disjointed storytelling. At times, characters introduce themselves with the kind of formality one might expect from a sporting event rather than the organic progression of a historical drama. This choice weakens character development and ultimately detracts from the film’s emotional impact.

 Historical Context and Its Representation

Chhatrapati Sambhaji’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. A fierce warrior and the son of the legendary Shivaji Maharaj, Sambhaji spearheaded resistance against Mughal dominion. Historically, the accounts of his life have varied, often reflecting a politicized narrative that either glorifies or vilifies his actions.

“Chhaava” operates within this interpretative framework, intending to evoke nationalist sentiments while examining themes of defiance and sacrifice. The film hints at Sambhaji’s status as a mansabdar of Aurangzeb, a nuance that is overshadowed by the more heroic portrayal that has been popularized in Marathi cinema.

The film takes liberties, choosing to emphasize the spiritual and religious aspects of the conflict, portraying it as a battle for the Hindu faith against Mughal oppression. While the historical battle is indeed wrapped in cultural context, “Chhaava,” at times, sacrifices historical fidelity for emotional resonance and attractive storytelling.

 Character Portrayals

Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji

Vicky Kaushal navigates the challenging role of Sambhaji with determination and skill, presenting a character treading between noble defiance and tragic vulnerability. His performance holds the film together, exuding a magnetic charm that compels audiences to invest emotionally in his character’s journey. However, the script often limits his depth, forcing him into archetypal heroism rather than allowing a nuanced exploration of his psyche.

Early on, viewers witness the camaraderie and conflict in Sambhaji’s life, particularly with his family. There are moments where his emotional turmoil is palpable, yet these instances can feel rushed or superficial due to the film’s pacing issues. Nevertheless, Kaushal’s command of the screen ensures that the character remains relatable despite the narrative’s shortcomings.

Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb

Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal of Aurangzeb offers a chilling counterbalance to Kaushal’s Sambhaji. His understated performance encapsulates the cunning and ruthlessness expected of a Mughal emperor. Khanna successfully conveys the internal strife faced by Aurangzeb, particularly in his political maneuverings for power within his court. The dialogue delivery, infused with restraint, allows for a memorable depiction that contrasts sharply with Sambhaji’s outward bravado.

Rashmika Mandanna

Lead role Rashmika’s portrayal of Maharani Yesubai, particularly her dialogues in the film. While her ‘expressive eyes’ and expressions were commendable, her dialogue delivery made her sound more South Indian than ever.

Supporting Characters

The supporting cast includes notable performances from Divya Dutta as Soyarabai, Sambhaji’s stepmother, and Ashutosh Rana as Hombirrao Mohite. Dutta provides a commendable performance, presenting a character torn between personal ambition and familial loyalty. The film hints at the numerous betrayals within Sambhaji’s circle but fails to fully develop these relationships, quickly moving past critical dramatic moments that could deepen the narrative. The character of Mohammad Akbar (neatly represented by Neil Bhoopalam) fails to resonate strongly due to a stilted portrayal and lack of character depth. As a rival in Aurangzeb’s court, Akbar’s interactions with both Sambhaji and Aurangzeb bring potential for rich conflict, but this is ultimately squandered within the film’s larger narrative.

Cinematic Elements

Direction and Cinematography

Laxman Utekar’s direction can be visually appealing, yet it occasionally loses focus on narrative clarity. The interplay of battle scenes, often bloodied and dramatic, may catch the eye, but the film frequently relies on overused tropes of cinematic action. Given Utekar’s expertise as a cinematographer, viewers might expect a more cohesive visual style that holds the story together rather than fragmenting it.

In terms of visuals, “Chhaava” employs vibrant color palettes and dramatic landscapes to depict the grandeur of battles and the rustic beauty of the Maratha landscape. The use of practical effects adds depth, yet at times, the marriage between the visual flair and storytelling feels disconnected, as if the aesthetics overshadow the character arcs.

Music and Sound Design

The film’s musical score, composed by the legendary A.R. Rahman, has been met with mixed reviews. While it complements some moments, the music occasionally fails to align with the film’s thematic gravity. The overall sound design lacks the rich sonic texture that could elevate the emotional stakes, leaving moments that should feel impactful somewhat muted.

Dialogue and Script

One of “Chhaava’s” significant shortcomings lies in its dialogue. Many lines are crafted to state the obvious, stripping away the nuance and depth that historical dialogue requires. The film suffers from clichés that dilute character interactions, resulting in a narrative that often feels didactic rather than evocative.

While there are glimpses of ambition in the script—such as the acknowledgement that the conflict was not solely about religion but also political motivations—these elements are not developed sufficiently, leading to a disjointed narrative. Characters deliver their motivations in a manner reminiscent of exposition rather than organic, dynamic exchanges.

Cultural Commentary

“Chhaava” operates at the intersection of history and contemporary nationalism. The film seeks to portray Sambhaji as a symbol of resistance against oppression, tapping into currents of pride in Maratha history that resonate with modern audiences. The narrative’s emphasis on grappling with internal and external challenges serves as a reflection of contemporary socio-political climates, but at times it also falls into the trap of glorifying warfare without addressing its implications thoughtfully. The film’s potential to provoke discussions about modern identity politics and the use of historical narratives to craft collective memory is apparent but underexplored. While “Chhaava” attempts to evoke pride within Marathi culture and identity, it risks oversimplifying the complexities of such historical figures and events by framing them solely within the context of current nationalist agendas.

 Emotional Climax and Resolution

Late in the second half, “Chhaava” regains some emotional footing as Sambhaji’s character arcs toward inevitable tragedy. The film captures him in moments of intense vulnerability and rage, bringing to light the costs of rebellion against an empire. This shift in focus underscores the suffering and sacrifice inherent in his journey, resonating with audiences as they confront the brutal realities of his environment. However, this emotional grip comes too late for many viewers. By neglecting the groundwork necessary for such an emotional payoff, the film risks leaving many feeling detached from the characters’ plights despite the well-executed final act.

“Chhaava” is a film teeming with potential, yet ultimately struggles to manifest a cohesive message due to its uneven narrative structure, simplistic dialogue, and a tendency to oversimplify complex historical realities. Vicky Kaushal’s powerful performance as Chhatrapati Sambhaji gives life to this period piece, yet it remains overshadowed by the film’s notable shortcomings—particularly in terms of character development and pacing. Although “Chhaava” conveys a sense of defiance and valor that is inherent to its subject matter, it remains tethered to tropes that may dissuade discerning audiences. For those seeking a rich historical narrative intertwined with personal tribulations, “Chhaava” may leave them yearning for a more realized vision. Nevertheless, it serves as a cultural artifact reflecting how historical narratives evolve and intersect with contemporary identity politics, making it a noteworthy if flawed entry in Indian cinema.