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CHHAAVA ;
The Indian film industry has a long history of bringing historical epics to the silver screen, and Chhaava is the latest grand spectacle that has captivated audiences. Directed by Laxman Utekar and starring Vicky Kaushal in the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the film has taken the box office by storm. With Rashmika Mandanna playing the role of Yesubai, and Akshaye Khanna delivering a compelling performance as Aurangzeb, Chhaava is proving to be one of the biggest films of 2025.
This article delves into the film’s record-breaking box office performance, critical reception, production journey, and cultural significance while also exploring the real-life history of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
Box Office Performance
Record-Breaking Opening Weekend
Chhaava witnessed a phenomenal start at the box office, earning ₹116.5 crore in its opening weekend. The historical drama’s strong pre-release buzz, powerful performances, and patriotic sentiment contributed to its massive footfall in theaters.
The first-day collection stood at ₹38 crore, marking one of the highest non-holiday openings for an Indian historical drama. The film saw a steady rise in numbers, with ₹30 crore earned on the second day and ₹48.5 crore on the third day (Sunday), bringing the weekend total to ₹116.5 crore.
Strong Hold on First Monday
After a blockbuster opening, Chhaava maintained its momentum despite the usual weekday drop. On its first Monday, the film collected ₹24 crore, taking its total to ₹140.5 crore. This figure surpassed Sky Force, which had previously held the highest first Monday record of 2025 with ₹7 crore.
The sustained box office collections indicate strong word-of-mouth and repeat viewings, especially among audiences in Maharashtra, where the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj holds immense historical significance.
Weekly Collection Trends
Following its strong Monday performance, Chhaava continued its golden run with daily collections in the range of ₹20-25 crore, leading to a first-week total of approximately ₹200 crore. If this trend continues, trade analysts predict that Chhaava may cross ₹500 crore worldwide, making it one of the most successful historical dramas in Indian cinema.
The Story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Early Life and Legacy
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was born on May 14, 1657. Groomed to be a warrior from a young age, he received extensive training in military strategy, administration, and diplomacy. Fluent in multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Persian, and Portuguese, Sambhaji Maharaj was known for his sharp intellect and bravery.
Ascension to the Throne
After the death of Shivaji Maharaj in 1680, a power struggle ensued, leading to Sambhaji’s coronation in 1681. His reign was marked by relentless battles against the Mughal Empire, particularly Emperor Aurangzeb, who sought to conquer the Maratha kingdom.
Battles and Resistance Against the Mughals
Sambhaji Maharaj led several successful campaigns against the Mughals and other invading forces. One of his most notable achievements was his military strategy, which involved guerrilla warfare tactics that disrupted Mughal supply lines and weakened their hold over the Deccan region. Despite facing betrayal and treachery, he continued to resist Aurangzeb’s attempts to annex the Maratha Empire.
In 1689, Sambhaji Maharaj was captured by the Mughal army and subjected to brutal torture for refusing to convert to Islam. His unwavering spirit and loyalty to his people made him a martyr, and he remains an icon of bravery and resistance in Indian history.
Critical Reception of Chhaava
Stellar Performances
Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj has received widespread acclaim. His transformation into the Maratha warrior, from physical appearance to emotional depth, has been praised by critics and audiences alike. Rashmika Mandanna’s portrayal of Yesubai, the strong-willed wife of Sambhaji, has also been appreciated for its authenticity and grace.
Akshaye Khanna’s performance as Aurangzeb has been particularly noteworthy. He brings a menacing yet calculated demeanor to the character, making him one of the most formidable on-screen antagonists in recent times.
Direction , Music and Cinematography
Laxman Utekar’s direction has been commended for its grandeur and attention to historical detail. The film’s cinematography by Saurabh Goswami captures the rich landscapes of Maharashtra, battle sequences, and royal courtrooms with breathtaking visuals.
A.R. Rahman’s powerful soundtrack elevates the emotional weight of the film. Songs like Aaya Re Toofan and Jaane Tu have struck a chord with the audience, while the film’s background score enhances the intensity of war sequences and dramatic confrontations.
The Making of Chhaava
Development and Research
The film is based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant, which provides a detailed account of Sambhaji Maharaj’s life. Extensive research was undertaken to ensure historical accuracy in costumes, weaponry, and battle strategies.
Casting and Character Preparation
Vicky Kaushal underwent rigorous training in sword fighting and horseback riding to embody the character of Sambhaji Maharaj. Rashmika Mandanna also learned traditional Maharashtrian dialect and courtly etiquette to bring authenticity to her role.
Filming Locations
The film was shot in real forts and historical sites across Maharashtra, including Raigad Fort and Panhala Fort. These locations add a layer of realism to the storytelling, making the audience feel transported to the 17th century.
Visual Effects and Post-Production
The film’s visual effects were handled by leading studios, ensuring grand battle sequences and palace interiors were recreated with precision. Special effects were used to depict large-scale war scenes with thousands of soldiers.
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Cultural and Social Impact
Reviving Interest in Maratha History
The release of Chhaava has reignited interest in Maratha history. Schools and educational institutions are using the film as a reference to teach students about the valiant efforts of Sambhaji Maharaj.
Political and Social Reactions
The film has received endorsements from political leaders and historians, who have praised its efforts to showcase an often-overlooked chapter of Indian history. However, certain groups raised objections to a dance sequence featuring the lead characters, prompting its removal to respect cultural sentiments.
Chhaava is not just a film; it is a tribute to one of India’s greatest warriors. With record-breaking box office collections, stellar performances, and a gripping narrative, the film has cemented its place as one of the biggest historical epics in Indian cinema. More than just entertainment, Chhaava serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire generations to come.
