"Chhaava" is a film that carries immense historical significance, attempting to bring to the forefront the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje, a warrior king whose story has often been overshadowed by that of his father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film is a visually ambitious and emotionally intense historical drama that seeks to depict the trials, triumphs, and tragedies of Sambhaji’s life. With Vicky Kaushal in the titular role, Chhaava promises a deep dive into the psyche of a ruler who faced relentless adversities, yet stood steadfast in his convictions. However, despite its grand intentions and strong lead performance, the film struggles to maintain a consistent emotional connect with the audience.
From the very beginning, Chhaava positions itself as an epic, but the execution is uneven. The first half is visually arresting but weighed down by its over-reliance on stylized action sequences. The elaborate slow-motion shots, excessive blood splatter, and heavily choreographed combat scenes give the film a 300-like aesthetic, which at times feels forced rather than organic. While these elements add grandeur, they take away from the emotional core that the story demands. The film attempts to portray Sambhaji’s inner turmoil, the burden of his lineage, and his determination to carve his own identity, but these themes get diluted in the larger-than-life spectacle.
Fortunately, the second half of the film picks up momentum and begins to deliver more compelling drama. As the narrative shifts its focus to the intense power struggle between Sambhaji Raje and the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, the film gains much-needed direction. Akshaye Khanna, portraying Aurangzeb, is a revelation. He speaks little, but his calculated expressions, piercing gaze, and measured body language make him a formidable presence. His performance is a reminder of how a strong antagonist can elevate a film, adding layers of tension and conflict.
Rashmika Mandanna, cast as Sambhaji’s wife and emotional anchor, delivers a sincere performance but is not given enough scope to shine. Her character arc feels abrupt, and while she tries to bring warmth and depth to her role, the script doesn’t provide her the necessary space to fully explore her character’s journey. She is primarily utilized in moments of emotional intensity, but those moments are too few and far between to leave a lasting impact.
One of the film’s biggest drawbacks is its disjointed screenplay. The constant back-and-forth between different timelines makes it difficult for the audience to fully immerse themselves in Sambhaji’s journey. The transitions between past and present are not seamless, leading to confusion rather than intrigue. Additionally, the background score, which should enhance the storytelling, often overpowers the dialogues, making it difficult to fully engage with key emotional moments. The film’s music, which could have served as an emotional anchor, also falls short. None of the songs leave a lasting impression or become memorable additions to the narrative.
Despite these flaws, Chhaava has several redeeming qualities. The film’s strongest asset is undoubtedly Vicky Kaushal, who gives an intensely committed performance. His portrayal of Sambhaji Raje is raw, powerful, and filled with conviction. He brings physicality and emotional depth to the role, making the warrior king feel both heroic and human. His transformation, particularly in the film’s climactic moments, is haunting and deeply affecting. The climax itself is one of the most brutal and disturbing sequences seen in Indian cinema, reminiscent of The Passion of the Christ in its portrayal of suffering and resilience. It is not for the faint-hearted but effectively conveys the extent of Sambhaji Raje’s unbreakable spirit and unwavering devotion to his people.
While Chhaava is not a flawless film, it is an earnest attempt at retelling an important chapter in Indian history. The film successfully highlights Sambhaji Raje’s valiant fight against the Mughals and his unwavering commitment to his land and people. It may not achieve the emotional depth it aims for, but it does manage to create moments of intense drama and powerful visuals.
In the end, Chhaava does not strive to be a groundbreaking historical drama, but rather a mainstream war epic that stays within familiar territory. It has its shortcomings—stylistic excess, an inconsistent screenplay, and underdeveloped supporting characters—but it is lifted by Vicky Kaushal’s remarkable performance. His dedication to his craft is evident in every frame, and he single-handedly carries the film through its weaker moments. If nothing else, Chhaava is worth watching for him. His portrayal ensures that Sambhaji Raje’s legacy is honored, even if the film itself falls short of being a masterpiece.
