‘Chhava’ Faces Opposition: Call for Historical Accuracy Before Release
Mumbai, 25th January 2025: The much-anticipated historical film ‘Chhava’, based on the life of Maratha warrior-king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has stirred controversy ahead of its release. Former Rajya Sabha MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati has raised concerns over certain scenes in the trailer and has demanded that the film be reviewed by historians to ensure historical accuracy.
The film, starring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Rashmika Mandanna as Maharani Yesubai, has already faced protests from some groups. They object to a dance sequence featuring the lead characters, claiming it misrepresents historical events.
Sambhajiraje, a direct descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, acknowledged the effort to bring Sambhaji Maharaj’s heroic legacy to the big screen but insisted on a thorough review of the film. “Director Laxman Utekar and his team showed me the trailer. I told them I would like to see the full film before its release. I have also offered to connect them with historians to ensure accuracy,” he stated.
The former MP emphasized the importance of correcting any historical inaccuracies, stating that it is essential to present this significant story authentically to audiences worldwide.
Earlier, Maratha organizations staged protests at Pune’s historic Lal Mahal, voicing their disapproval of the dance sequence shown in the trailer. One protester remarked, “Sambhaji Maharaj and Rani Yesubai are shown dancing after the coronation, which is historically inaccurate. The filmmakers should screen the film for historians and release it only after their approval.”
Actress Rashmika Mandanna, who portrays Maharani Yesubai, became emotional while watching the trailer at the launch event. The actress expressed gratitude for playing the role, adding that it was a privilege to depict such an iconic figure. However, she surprised fans by hinting at retirement.
