Synopsis: Chhaava
Chhaava is a 2025 historical action drama directed by Laxman Utekar, based on Shivaji Sawant’s Marathi novel. The film stars Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Akshaye Khanna as Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Plot Summary: The story revolves around the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. After his father’s death, Sambhaji takes over the Maratha empire and faces numerous challenges from the Mughal empire. The film highlights his bravery, struggles, and ultimate sacrifice for his kingdom.
Performance: Vicky Kaushal delivers a powerful performance as Sambhaji Maharaj, capturing the character’s intensity and determination. His portrayal is both compelling and convincing, making him the standout performer in the film. Akshaye Khanna, as Aurangzeb, also shines with his menacing presence and impactful one-liners.
Direction and Cinematography: Laxman Utekar’s direction is commendable, especially in the second half of the film, where the story picks up pace and becomes gripping. The action sequences are well-choreographed, and the climax is particularly thrilling. However, the first half of the film feels a bit slow and lacks engaging storytelling.
Music: AR Rahman’s music and background score drive the narrative, but some of the songs feel out of place with the film’s setting. The romantic number “Jaane Tu” stands out as a beautiful standalone song but doesn’t fit well within the historical context.
Conclusion: Chhaava is a gripping historical spectacle that deserves to be watched on the big screen. While it has its flaws, particularly in the first half, the strong performances by Vicky Kaushal and Akshaye Khanna make it a worthwhile watch