Chhaava, the epic historical drama starring Vicky Kaushal, has been making waves at the box office since its release, rapidly establishing itself as the biggest Hindi opener of 2025. The film’s success can be attributed to a combination of its gripping narrative, stellar performances, and the overall star power it brings to the screen. Kaushal's portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, a figure of great significance in Indian history, has earned him widespread admiration. His nuanced and powerful performance has resonated deeply with audiences, further cementing his place as one of Bollywood’s most talented and versatile actors.
Rajkummar Rao, a fellow actor known for his impeccable performances, recently watched Chhaava and expressed his admiration for the film in a heartfelt post on Instagram. In his review, Rao heaped praise on Vicky Kaushal for his commanding presence in the film, stating that Kaushal truly deserves all the recognition and accolades he is receiving. “Chhaava is brilliant @VickyKaushal09 you deserve all this love bhai and much more,” he wrote. This gesture not only reflects the camaraderie between the two actors but also highlights the sense of mutual respect within the film industry. Rao also praised the film’s director, Laxman Utekar, for his vision and execution, as well as the contribution of music maestro AR Rahman, whose score elevated the film’s emotional impact.
Furthermore, Rajkummar extended his praise to the ensemble cast, which includes Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Vineet Kumar Singh, and Ashutosh Rana. He commended each actor for their remarkable performances, which added depth and richness to the narrative. Vicky Kaushal responded with gratitude, acknowledging the kind words with a message of thanks, adding a heart emoji to express his appreciation for Rajkummar's support.
The film Chhaava focuses on the life and struggles of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, one of the most celebrated figures in Indian history. Vicky Kaushal’s performance has been lauded for its intensity and emotional weight, bringing the historical warrior king’s courage, resolve, and sense of duty to life. Alongside Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna shines in her portrayal of Yesubai Bhonsale, Sambhaji’s wife, whose character brings a poignant emotional angle to the storyline.
Chhaava’s stellar cast also features Akshaye Khanna, who plays an integral role in the narrative, Ashutosh Rana, known for his commanding presence, and Divya Dutta, all of whom add significant layers to the film’s dramatic depth. Together, they create a compelling ensemble that brings the historical story to life in a way that is both thrilling and moving.
Despite the praise, Chhaava has not escaped some critical scrutiny. India Today's review, for instance, acknowledged the film's ambitious scope but criticized its emotional execution. The review pointed out that the film's introduction felt overly drawn out and over-choreographed, with slow-motion shots, close-ups of fierce eyes, and dramatic sword fights that drew comparisons to the iconic 300. While these elements added a sense of grandeur to the film, the review suggested that the emotional depth, which could have made the film more impactful, was somewhat lacking.
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava has a bold and grand vision, showcasing the valor and legacy of a ruler who fought against overwhelming odds. The film’s cinematography and choreography, especially in the battle sequences, are a visual spectacle that showcases Utekar's dedication to bringing the historical drama to life in the most authentic way possible. However, the film’s pacing and excessive reliance on action scenes, especially in the early portions, may have affected the emotional engagement for some viewers.
Nevertheless, Chhaava is proving to be a film that resonates with fans of historical epics and period dramas, particularly those who have an interest in Indian history. Vicky Kaushal’s dynamic portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj continues to be the standout element of the film, with his ability to embody the fierce warrior and compassionate leader captivating audiences. With the film still performing well at the box office, it is clear that the collaboration between Kaushal, Utekar, and the rest of the team has resulted in a notable cinematic offering.
As Chhaava continues its run, it will undoubtedly be remembered for its sweeping portrayal of historical figures, intense performances, and its ambitious take on an era that shaped the course of Indian history. While it may have its flaws, it is a film that celebrates the bravery, sacrifice, and legacy of one of India’s most important historical figures.
