Chhaava Review: Vicky Kaushal Shines in This Grand Historical Epic

What Is the Film About?

Following the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji, his son, Sambhaji, ascends the Maratha throne, facing relentless threats from the Mughals, led by Aurangzeb, and internal conspiracies. Determined to uphold his father’s legacy and defend Swarajya (self-rule), Sambhaji’s journey is marked by political intrigue, fierce battles, and personal struggles. Chhaava delves into his military campaigns, strategic brilliance, and deeply personal relationships, offering a gripping portrayal of his turbulent reign.

Performances

Vicky Kaushal delivers a career-defining performance as the fearless Maratha king, Sambhaji. His portrayal seamlessly blends intense action, heartfelt romance, and stirring monologues, bringing the legendary warrior to life. Rashmika Mandanna shines as the resilient and graceful Yesubai, complementing Vicky’s energy with a poised and compelling act.

Analysis

At its core, Chhaava pulsates with the raw intensity of war, power struggles, and vengeance. Aurangzeb, revelling in Shivaji’s death, sees an opportunity to crush the Marathas, but Sambhaji rises to the challenge. The film meticulously explores his internal and external battles—navigating palace conspiracies, the burdens of leadership, and his emotional anchor in Yesubai.

Cinematic portrayals often reduce history to a simplistic battle of good versus evil, and Chhaava follows suit, unabashedly celebrating Sambhaji’s heroism. Aurangzeb is painted as the clear antagonist, yet the film excels in its nuanced depiction of Sambhaji’s relationships—with his trusted army chief Hambirrao, poet Chandogamatya, and even an unlikely connection with Muhammad Akbar, Aurangzeb’s rebellious son.

A significant portion of the film is dedicated to showcasing war strategies, emphasizing how Sambhaji’s tactical brilliance allowed the Marathas to challenge the mighty Mughal empire. The action sequences are intense and meticulously choreographed, set against breathtaking landscapes—from dense forests to arid battlefields.

Laxman Utekar ensures the narrative isn't solely about battlefield heroics; the film captures the sacrifices made by women in times of war. Characters like Zinat-un-Nissa, Aurangzeb’s daughter, and the scheming Soyarabai add depth, highlighting the significant yet often overlooked roles of women in history.

The storytelling crescendos in a powerful climax, where poetry, resilience, and unyielding spirit converge in a gripping finale. While Chhaava embraces a larger-than-life tone, it strikes a balance between grand spectacle and emotional depth.

Performances by Supporting Cast

Akshaye Khanna delivers a chilling performance as the ruthless Aurangzeb, exuding menace with restrained intensity. Ashutosh Rana, Vineet Kumar Singh, and Divya Dutta leave a strong impact in their roles, while Diana Penty’s portrayal of Aurangzeb’s daughter adds a fresh layer to the narrative.

Music & Technical Aspects

A.R. Rahman’s soundtrack complements the film’s grandiose scale, offering a blend of powerful war anthems and evocative melodies. Saurabh Goswami’s cinematography captures the era’s rich aesthetics, enhancing the immersive experience. The action choreography, executed with minimal CGI, sets a new benchmark for war dramas.

Highlights

✅ Gripping narrative with rich historical detailing

✅ Powerful performances, especially by Vicky Kaushal and Akshaye Khanna

✅ High-octane action sequences and stunning cinematography

✅ Emotionally charged climax

Drawbacks

❌ A slightly lengthy second half

❌ A straightforward ‘good vs. evil’ narrative with limited moral complexity

❌ More vulnerability in the protagonist could have added depth

Verdict

Chhaava is a grand historical epic that delivers action, drama, and emotional intensity. With stellar performances, breathtaking visuals, and a rousing climax, it is a cinematic spectacle meant for the big screen. If you love historical dramas packed with heroic storytelling, this one is a must-watch!