A special screening of Chhaava, the Vicky Kaushal-led historical epic based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, is set to take place in Parliament on Thursday, March 27. This high-profile event will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, several Union Ministers, and numerous Members of Parliament. The screening underscores the government's recognition of the Maratha warrior king’s remarkable legacy — celebrating his bravery, strategic brilliance, and unwavering resistance against the Mughal Empire, particularly under Aurangzeb’s rule.
The film, directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan, brings to life the extraordinary journey of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the great Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Vicky Kaushal delivers a powerful and emotionally charged performance as Sambhaji Maharaj, portraying his fearless spirit and the sacrifices he made to protect his people and uphold his father's vision of an independent Maratha kingdom. Kaushal’s physical transformation and intense preparation for the role have been widely praised, with many calling it his career-best performance. Rashmika Mandanna stars alongside him, playing a pivotal role that adds depth to the emotional core of the narrative.
The screening holds special significance, not just as a cinematic event, but as a moment that intertwines art, history, and politics. For many attending leaders, the film represents a powerful reminder of India's rich and resilient past, resonating with the ideals of patriotism, leadership, and the fight against oppression. It’s expected that the screening will spark meaningful discussions about how Sambhaji Maharaj’s principles and legacy continue to inspire modern India.
Chhaava has become a box office juggernaut, smashing records even in its fourth week. The film recently surpassed the lifetime earnings of the Hindi version of Baahubali 2, securing its place as the sixth highest-grossing Hindi film of all time. With domestic net collections reaching an astonishing ₹583.35 crore over 38 days and a global haul of ₹780 crore — including ₹90.50 crore from international markets — Chhaava stands tall as the biggest Hindi blockbuster of 2025.
Trade experts predict that the film is on track to surpass Pathaan (₹524.53 crore) and Gadar 2 (₹525.7 crore) in the coming weeks, potentially securing a spot among the top five highest-grossing Hindi films ever. The absence of major new releases in the near future further bolsters its box office prospects. The film’s emotional depth, grandeur, and patriotic resonance have struck a chord with audiences across demographics, ensuring packed theaters even after weeks of release.
Director Laxman Utekar’s meticulous attention to historical detail, coupled with visually stunning cinematography and an epic background score, has drawn praise from critics and audiences alike. The film’s battle sequences are hailed as some of the most realistic and hard-hitting depictions of Maratha warfare ever put to screen, blending raw intensity with breathtaking visuals.
The success of Chhaava has also reignited public interest in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s life, prompting renewed conversations about his enduring legacy in India’s history. The film serves as both an educational and emotional journey, reminding viewers of the sacrifices made to preserve the Maratha empire and resist foreign domination.
With the parliamentary screening, Chhaava cements its place not only as a cinematic triumph but also as a cultural phenomenon, bridging the gap between past and present, and ensuring that the valiant spirit of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj continues to inspire generations to come.
