Chhaava

Overview

Chhaava (2025) is a historical action-drama that celebrates the courage, leadership, and sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the fearless son of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film blends grand-scale war action with emotional storytelling, aiming to inspire audiences across generations.

Key Production Details

The film features massive battle recreations, real armor, and historically accurate weaponry to capture the valor of the Maratha Empire. Over 10,000 background actors were used for war scenes, combined with state-of-the-art VFX for aerial and ground combat realism.
A dedicated research team ensured historical accuracy in costumes, sets, and language, making Chhaava one of the most authentic period dramas of recent years.

Expected Release Platforms

Chhaava will have a theatrical release on February 7, 2025, followed by its OTT release on Netflix after its successful box office run.

Promotional Materials

The teaser and first-look posters have created immense buzz, showcasing Vicky Kaushal’s fierce portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj. The trailers highlight grand battle sequences, emotional family moments, and patriotic intensity, promising a powerful cinematic experience. Behind-the-scenes clips also reveal the film’s large-scale sets and detailed craftsmanship.

What Is The Story About?

Chhaava follows Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (played by Vicky Kaushal), a brave warrior and son of Shivaji Maharaj, who fights to protect his empire and uphold his father’s legacy. The film captures his journey of courage, leadership, and sacrifice, exploring his battles against the Mughals and his internal struggles as a ruler.

Synopsis of the Plot

Set in the late 17th century, Chhaava portrays Sambhaji Maharaj’s rise to power, his strategic brilliance, and his unyielding defiance against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. With the support of his wife Yesubai (Rashmika Mandanna) and loyal warriors, Sambhaji must defend the Maratha Empire from betrayal and overwhelming odds. The narrative balances epic warfare with personal emotion, culminating in a heart-wrenching climax that celebrates honor and resistance.

Major Twists and Unique Plot Elements

A key turning point arises when Sambhaji is captured by the Mughal forces, leading to one of the most emotional and heroic sequences in Indian historical cinema. His final stand against tyranny defines the film’s soul—valor in the face of inevitable sacrifice.

Backdrop and Themes

Backdrop: The movie is set during the Maratha-Mughal conflict of the 17th century, depicting the glory, struggles, and resilience of the Maratha Empire.

Themes:

• Patriotism and Sacrifice
• Legacy and Leadership
• Courage and Resistance

Performances or Cast

Main Cast:

• Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj – A fierce warrior-king devoted to his people and his father’s legacy.
• Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale – The queen who stands as Sambhaji’s emotional strength and strategic partner.
• Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb – The Mughal emperor whose relentless ambition tests Sambhaji’s endurance and faith.

Supporting Cast:

• Ashutosh Rana as Kavi Kalash, Sambhaji’s confidant and advisor.
• Sharad Kelkar, Pankaj Tripathi, and Makarand Deshpande in pivotal supporting roles adding depth to the Maratha court.

Actor Preparation and Behind-the-Scenes

Vicky Kaushal underwent extensive physical transformation and horse-riding and sword-fighting training for months to portray the valor of Sambhaji. Rashmika Mandanna learned Marathi diction to deliver authenticity to her dialogues. The production team recreated massive 17th-century battlefields and royal palaces, combining real sets with CGI enhancements for scale.

Director’s Vision and Behind-the-Scenes Insight

Director Laxman Utekar aimed to present Chhaava not just as a historical retelling but as a deeply emotional story of bravery, family, and duty. His approach merges grand visual spectacle with personal storytelling, making history accessible and emotionally resonant for modern audiences.

Cinematography and Visual Style

Cinematographer Anuj Rakesh Dhawan captures sweeping aerial views of battlefields and intimate emotional close-ups, balancing scale and sentiment. The use of warm tones, traditional lighting, and natural landscapes adds authenticity, while CGI-assisted visuals enhance large-scale war sequences.

Music and Sound Design

Music by Amit Trivedi delivers a powerful blend of Marathi folk sounds and orchestral grandeur. The soundtrack includes patriotic anthems and soulful tracks depicting Sambhaji’s inner strength and devotion. The sound design amplifies war scenes with roaring battle cries, sword clashes, and emotional depth in quieter moments.

Cultural Impact and Social Relevance

Chhaava honors the legacy of the Maratha Empire and the heroism of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, bringing a crucial chapter of Indian history to the big screen. It emphasizes themes of courage, sacrifice, and leadership, resonating with audiences who value India’s heritage and valor.

Audience Reception and Expectations

Audiences are eagerly anticipating Chhaava for its powerful performances, grand visuals, and historical storytelling. The film’s teaser has already set social media abuzz, and trade analysts predict it to be one of 2025’s biggest blockbusters. Fans of Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna are especially excited to see their collaboration in this epic tale.

Budget and Box Office (Expected) Collection

Budget: Estimated at ₹200 crore, ensuring a visually rich and authentic historical portrayal.

Box Office (Expected): Expected to earn over ₹300 crore in its opening weeks, driven by strong anticipation and star power.

Conclusion

Chhaava (2025) promises to be a monumental cinematic experience, combining authentic history, emotional storytelling, and breathtaking visuals. With Vicky Kaushal’s commanding performance, Laxman Utekar’s direction, and Amit Trivedi’s stirring music, the film stands as a grand tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and India’s warrior heritage.