“Chhaava” Full Movie Reviews – The Battle for Honor, The War for Legacy

“Chhaava: The Lion’s Fury – A King’s Fight for Freedom”

Sambhaji stood alone against the Mughals! Aurangzeb thought that he would easily suppress Sambhaji. But even the enemies were shaken by Sambhaji’s determination and courage! And to say that this was the best and greatest performance of Vicky Kaushal’s life, as if Sambhaji had really returned.

✳️ Story:

The death of Shivaji Maharaj seemed to give the Mughals a chance to breathe a sigh of relief. They thought that the Maratha resistance would break this time, but they did not know that they were now going to face a new lion—Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj! To protect his father’s legacy, Sambhaji Maharaj (Vicky Kaushal) not only defeated the enemies on the battlefield but also immortalized his name in history as an ideal ruler.

After Shivaji’s death, the Maratha Empire became stronger under the leadership of Sambhaji Maharaj. He fought tirelessly against Aurangzeb (Akshaye Khanna) for nine years, effectively blocking the Mughals’ entry into the Deccan. But enemies are more dangerous than external forces when they betray from within. Sambhaji Maharaj is betrayed by his inner circle and is captured in an ambush. Aurangzeb, despite his brutal torture, could not break his morale. Sambhaji Maharaj’s death is as heartbreaking as it is inspiring—a true hero never surrenders!

✳️ Personal Opinion:

This is a historical film, with a vast canvas, and the story of a great warrior. Director Laxman Utekar has tried to present an epic narrative, and he has succeeded in the second half. Although the first half seems a bit drawn out, once the story finds its momentum, you will be completely absorbed in the film.

Vicky Kaushal seems to have breathed life into the character of Sambhaji Maharaj. Every scene of his, the fire in his eyes, his roar—everything will draw you in. Especially the final battle scenes are absolutely breathtaking! “Kutte ke pilon se, sher ka bachcha nahi bhaag jata”—when this dialogue comes, the hairs on the back of your neck really stand up!

Akshaye Khanna has appeared on screen as the terrifying, cold-headed Aurangzeb. Though his dialogues are few, his presence is quite powerful. Ashutosh Rana and Vineet Kumar Singh are impeccable in their roles. However, sadly, the female characters are not portrayed in the same way. A strong actress like Divya Dutt could have been given more space.

There are mixed reviews about AR Rahman’s music. The song “Aaya Re Tufan” is great, but the rest of the tracks do not suit the mood of the story that much.

✳️Overall:

Chhava is not just the story of Sambhaji Maharaj; it is a reflection of an ideal, a spirit. Although the first half is a bit slow, the extraordinary pace and climax of the second half take the film to another level. For Vicky Kaushal’s brilliant performance and epic presentation, this movie is a must-watch in the theater!