Vicky Kaushal's upcoming historical epic, Chhaava, is witnessing an outstanding response in advance bookings, setting the stage for a grand theatrical release on February 14, 2025. The film, directed by Laxman Utekar and produced under Maddock Films, explores the life and valor of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Given the strong historical and cultural resonance of the subject, the movie is expected to perform exceptionally well, especially in Maharashtra, where the Maratha legacy holds deep significance.
As of 6 PM on Monday, Chhaava had already sold over 100,000 tickets for its opening day, amassing an impressive ₹3.55 crore in pre-sales. Industry analysts believe this number will only surge further in the days leading up to release, potentially surpassing the advance booking records of other recent Hindi films. The film’s strong performance in Maharashtra, which accounts for over 60% of its total advance bookings, indicates the high anticipation among audiences eager to witness the story of the legendary Maratha warrior on the big screen. Given that Chhaava is releasing in the same month as Valentine’s Day, it will also compete with romantic dramas, yet its historical and action-packed narrative is expected to carve a niche audience.
The film boasts a stellar cast, with Vicky Kaushal essaying the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Rashmika Mandanna portraying Maharani Yesubai, and Akshaye Khanna taking on the role of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The supporting cast includes seasoned actors like Ashutosh Rana, Divya Dutta, and Diana Penty, adding further depth to the narrative. The film’s music, composed by the legendary A.R. Rahman, is expected to enhance the grandeur of the period drama, making it an immersive cinematic experience.
One of the biggest factors contributing to Chhaava's strong advanced sales is its thematic connection to Maratha history. Sambhaji Maharaj is revered as a fearless warrior who stood against the mighty Mughal Empire, and his story of resilience and sacrifice has long been a subject of admiration in Maharashtra. The film’s release coincides with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, adding a layer of cultural and patriotic significance, which could further drive footfalls to theaters.
Trade experts are optimistic that Chhaava will open with record-breaking numbers at the box office. Some reports even suggest that its pre-sales business has surpassed that of Stree 2, though official confirmation on that front is awaited. If Chhaava maintains its current momentum in advance bookings, it could register one of the best openings for a Hindi film in 2025, setting a strong precedent for period dramas in Bollywood.
With just a few days left before its grand release, all eyes are on Chhaava to see whether it lives up to the hype. If audience word-of-mouth and critical reception are favorable, the film could enjoy a long and successful theatrical run, cementing Vicky Kaushal’s stature as a powerhouse performer in historical dramas.
