Vicky Kaushal & Rashmika Mandanna’s Chhaava Gears Up for Release on February 14
Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna’s much-awaited historical drama, Chhaava, is set to hit theaters on February 14. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film is an adaptation of the Marathi novel Chhaava, written by Shivaji Sawant. Vicky Kaushal portrays Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, while Akshaye Khanna takes on the role of Aurangzeb. The film also features Ashutosh Rana, Divya Dutta, and Diana Penty in pivotal roles.
Laxman Utekar discovered the inspiring story of Sambhaji Maharaj during the COVID-19 pandemic, which motivated him to bring it to the big screen. In an interview with India Today, he shared, “Everyone knows about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, but few know about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. He was an extraordinary warrior, yet his story remains largely untold. When I read about his life, I realized how significant he was, and that’s when the idea of Chhaava was born.”
Who Was Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj?
Sambhaji Maharaj was the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. He became the second ruler of the Maratha kingdom after his father’s demise, leading for nine years. Renowned for his bravery and patriotism, he played a crucial role in defending and expanding the Maratha rule.
Sambhaji Maharaj ruled from 1681 to 1689, a period marked by intense conflicts between the Marathas and several formidable adversaries, including the Mughal Empire, the Siddi of Janjira, the Wadiyars of Mysore, and the Portuguese.
One of his most significant military campaigns was the attack on Burhanpur, a key Mughal city in present-day Madhya Pradesh and a vital trade center. This strategic move was aimed at curbing Aurangzeb’s expansion into the Deccan.
Between 1682 and 1688, numerous battles were fought between the Marathas and the Mughals. Despite Aurangzeb’s persistent efforts to seize Maratha-held forts, his attempts ultimately proved unsuccessful.
Two years into his reign, Sambhaji Maharaj, also known as Sambhuraje, uncovered a conspiracy to assassinate him. In response, he executed around 24 members of influential families involved in the plot.
By 1685, the Mughals had gained ground, reclaiming several of Sambhaji’s strongholds. Three years later, in 1689, he was deceitfully captured by Aurangzeb, who subjected him to brutal torture for days before executing him in the most horrific manner.
Despite facing extreme suffering, Sambhaji Maharaj remained steadfast in his principles, refusing to bow to Aurangzeb’s demands. He chose death over surrender, defending his three most sacred values: Deva (faith), Desh (motherland), and Dharma (duty). His unwavering courage earned him a revered place in history, and he continues to be celebrated in Maharashtra for his sacrifice and unbreakable spirit.
Sambhaji Maharaj was executed on March 11, 1689.
Director Laxman Utekar, known for films like Luka Chuppi, Mimi, and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, brings this powerful story to life in Chhaava. The film is produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films.
