Vicky Kaushal & Rashmika Mandanna’s ‘Chhaava’ Runs Into Controversy, Maratha Groups Demand Experts’ Scrutiny

Mumbai: Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna’s period drama ‘Chhaava’ has landed in a controversy because of alleged discrepancies in the film.

Following the release of the film’s trailer, which featured Vicky and Rashmika’s dance sequence with the lezim, Maratha groups expressed their displeasure over improper usage of Maharashtra’ s traditional instrument.

Former Rajya Sabha MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, a direct descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,  advised the filmmakers to consult historians and rectify discrepancies in the film.

“It is commendable the film highlights the life and valiant reign of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Director Laxman Utekar and his team showed me the movie’s trailer. I told them I would like to watch the entire movie before its release. I also offered to connect them with historians to address inaccuracies to ensure this significant story is presented authentically to audiences worldwide,” Sambhajiraje told PTI.

“However, the filmmakers have not engaged with historians as yet. While the lezim is an important part of our cultural heritage, it is necessary to discuss whether taking such cinematic liberties aligns with the dignity and historical portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj. Historians and experts should deliberate on the appropriateness of this depiction,” he added.

Uday Samant, Maharashtra minister for Industries and Marathi Language, also urged filmmakers to approach experts before the film’s release.

“Some people have raised objections to some of the scenes in the film. Our view is that the film should be shown to experts before it is released. Anything that dishonours Sambhaji Maharaj will not be tolerated. If there is anything objectionable in the film, then the producers and the director should have it removed. Any further decision on the film will be taken after viewing it; otherwise, the film will not be allowed to be released,” he shared on X.

Directed by Laxman Utekar, ‘Chhaava’ features Vicky as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Rashmika as his wife Yesubai. Akshaye Khanna will be playing the role of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the film.

The film will be released in theatres on February 14.