‘Chhaava’ Movie Review
Movie: Chhaava
Release Date: 07-03-2025
CBFC Rating: UA
Run-time: 2h 41m
Production company:Maddock Films, Geetha Arts
Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Neil Bhoopalam, Ashutosh Rana, Divya Dutta, Pradeep Rawat and Others
Cinematography: Saurabh Goswami
Editing: Manish Pradhan
Music : A. R. Rahman
Producer: Dinesh Vijan
Direction: Laxman Utekar
Chhaava, a period entertainer starring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, has been making waves in the Indian film industry. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film is a tribute to the bravery and valor of Chatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film’s Telugu version is prestigiously released by Allu Aravind’s Geetha Arts on 7 March 2025.
Plot
The story revolves around Sambhaji Maharaj’s heroics as he takes on the Moghul emperor Aurangzeb. Following the demise of Chatrapathi Shivaji, Moghul Emperor Aurangazeb decides to annex the Maratha Kingdom under the impression that it was weakened. However, he gets a huge shock in the form of Chatrapati Shivaji’s son Sambhaji Maharaj. The film explores the exciting battle that unfolds, with Sambhaji’s wife Yesubai, Zinat Unni Sa Begum, and others playing crucial roles.
Performances
Vicky Kaushal undergoes a remarkable transformation as Sambhaji Maharaj, showcasing variations in his performance. He nails the role to perfection, making a stunning impact with his performance during the climax. Rashmika Mandanna does full justice in the role of Sambhaji’s wife Yesubai, supporting Vicky Kaushal well and coming up with good expressions. Akshaye Khanna is okay as Aurangzeb, but fails to make an impact with his menacing features.
Highlights
Vicky Kaushal
War Episodes
Second Half, Climax
Cinematography
Quality Dubbing
Drawbacks
Lack of Strong Story
First half drama
Music
Analysis
Chhaava is about courage, valor, sacrifice of a King who displayed unflinching determination in spreading swarjya. The action sequences are breathtaking and impactful, with the dialogues and backstabbing scenes giving goosebumps to the viewers. The first half is allotted to set the story and characters. The screenplay is racy in the second half, with the pre-climax and climax emotions leaving the viewers tear-struck. However, the film takes cinematic liberties, and at times, even the historical balances are not maintained. The Telugu dubbing quality is commendable.
Chhaava is a visually pleasing film with excellent cinematography by Saurabh Gowami The music of AR Rahman fails to make an impact, but his background score is powerful. Overall, Chhaava is a perfect tribute to Chatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, with Vicky Kaushal delivering a standout performance. The well-executed war sequences and impactful emotions add to the intriguing experience, making Chhaava a must-watch.
Rating: 3.75/5
Bottomline: : A Perfect Tribute to Maratha Valor
