If youʼve ever wondered what happens when Vicky Kaushal decides to morph into a 17th-century Maratha warrior king, Chhaava is your answer. Directed by Laxman Utekar, this ₹11 crore historical spectacle swings between jaw-dropping action and moments so intense youʼll forget to breathe—or laugh at the occasional Bollywood-isms. Letʼs dissect this cinematic gamble without spoiling the desi ghee drama.
Rating: 3/5 ⭐
Chhaava Review: When Vicky Kaushalʼs Biceps Deserve Their Own Credit
Honestly, Vicky Kaushal undoubtedly sweated more than a halwai during Diwali (just Kidding), bulking up and sporting a beard that probably had its own fan club, some argue he missed the mark. Was it the intensity? Did the rawness of Sambhaji Maharaj get lost somewhere between action sequences and AR Rahman’s music? Perhaps. Sometime the roaring also seems too much and sometimes unnecessary.
Some critics whisper that at times, it felt like Vicky was trying too hard, like a student cramming the night before an exam.
While, we are not denying the fact that the man reportedly injured himself during shooting. But transforming into a historical figure isn’t just about nailing the look; it’s about embodying a spirit. And maybe, just maybe, this time, the fit wasn’t as seamless as we’d hoped.
But yeah, even if Vicky didn’t fully channel Sambhaji, he still delivered a performance that’s got people talking. And in Bollywood, stirring the pot is half the battle won.
Fun fact: His hands were tied for an entire night during a torture scene, leaving them temporarily paralyzed. Talk about method acting!
Talking about Rashmika Mandanna as Maharani Yesubai brings grace but feels underutilized—unnatural and a very little screen time. Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb? Cold, calculating, and the kind of villain youʼd swipe left on. He did the better job than others for sure. The supporting cast—Divya Dutta, Ashutosh Rana, and Vineet Kumar Singh—add depth, but this is Vickyʼs show.
Chhaava Budget: Where Did the ₹110 Crore Go?
- Sets: The Raigad Fort replica is so authentic, youʼll half-expect a tourist guide to pop up. Each pillar and carving reportedly cost more than my monthly coffee budget.
- Costumes: Opulent angrakhas and jewelry that could fund a small nation.
- Action: Horses, swords, and slow-motion shots—because why walk when you can stom dramatically?
Trade analysts predict a ₹2225 crore opening , which could make Chhaava 2025ʼs biggest opener. But will it recover its budget? Only time (and the jantaʼs love for historicals) will tell.
Plot & Pacing: History Lessons Meet Masala Moments
Based on Shivaji Sawantʼs novel Chhava, the film dives into Sambhajiʼs clash with Aurangzeb. The first half drags like a Mughal siege, but post-interval, itʼs a dhamakedar ride.
Highlights:
- Battle Sequences: Think Brahmastra meets Tanhaji, minus the CGI overload.
- Emotional Beats: A scene where Sambhaji hugs his son might make you text your dad.
That said, the screenplay borrows heavily from Bajirao Mastani and Panipat . Originality?
Letʼs just say itʼs inspired by the greats.
Vicky Kaushal: From “Mere Mehboob” to Maratha Monarch
Vickyʼs physical transformation—bulking up, growing a beard that could house sparrows—is impressive. But itʼs his eyes that steal the show: rage, vulnerability, and royal arrogance, all in one glance. His face-off with Akshaye Khanna? Pure masala gold.
PS: The man trained so hard he injured his arm mid-shoot and had to pause for a month. Respect!
Director Laxman Utekarʼs Hit-or-Miss Vision
Utekar nails the visuals but fumbles with pacing. The filmʼs grandeur is undeniable, yet emotional moments feel rushed. Example: Rashmikaʼs character gets a 2-minute backstory while Vickyʼs biceps get a 10-minute montage.
CBFC Drama: The board muted “haramzaada” and tweaked dialogues to “Jai Bhavani”. Sigh.
Chhaava Review: Critics vs. Audiences
- Taran Adarsh: SPECTACULAR. 4.5 stars. Vicky is award-worthy!
- Audience Reactions: First half = nap time | Second half = fire!
- Rotten Tomatoes: Not rated yet, but Twitterʼs split between “masterpiece” and “meh”.
Box Office Verdict: Hit or Flop?
With a ₹110 crore budget, Chhaava needs ~₹220 crore to break even. Early trends suggest itʼll open big, but longevity depends on word-of-mouth. If you love history with a tadka of drama, buy the ticket. If not, wait for OTT—your couch wonʼt judge.
Wrapping Up
Chhaava isnʼt perfect, but itʼs a bold, brash attempt to resurrect Maratha pride. Vicky Kaushal shines brighter than Aurangzebʼs crown, and the action sequences are worth the popcorn stains.
Just donʼt expect Schindlerʼs List levels of nuance.
