Prime Minister Narendra Modi and members of his Cabinet are set to attend the special screening of the blockbuster film ‘Chhaava’, a film depicting the life and martyrdom of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, at the Balayogi Auditorium in the Parliament Library Building on March 27. The film’s cast and crew, including lead actor Vicky Kaushal will be attending the screening
This is not the first time a special film screening has taken place in Parliament, but ‘Chhaava’ holds unique significance. Based on the valiant resistance of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s son, the film chronicles Sambhaji Maharaj’s nine-year military struggle against Aurangzeb’s oppressive rule and his ultimate martyrdom. The movie’s unapologetic portrayal of history has fueled nationwide discussions, reigniting interest in the Maratha-Mughal conflict and sparking debates on historical narratives in India.
PM Modi had earlier praised the film during the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan (ABMSS), saying, “It is Maharashtra and Mumbai that have elevated both Marathi and Hindi cinema. These days, ‘Chhaava’ is creating a buzz across the country. The introduction of Sambhaji Maharaj’s valour in this form has been inspired by Shivaji Sawant’s Marathi novel.”
The Prime Minister’s support has amplified the film’s impact, cementing its position as a cinematic tribute to Maratha pride and history. The movie brings to light the horrific torture inflicted on Sambhaji Maharaj by Aurangzeb’s forces – a part of history that has often been whitewashed.
Released on February 14, ‘Chhaava’, directed by Laxman Utekar, brings to life the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the second ruler of the Maratha Empire.
Starring Vicky Kaushal in the titular role and Rashmika Mandanna as his wife, Yesubai, the film has set a new milestone as the first Hindi movie to cross 12 million ticket sales on BookMyShow, as announced on March 18. Produced by Maddock Films. The film’s ensemble cast includes Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Neil Bhoopalam, Ashutosh Rana, Divya Dutta, and Vineet Kumar Singh.
Since its release, ‘Chhaava’ has shattered box office records, becoming one of the biggest Hindi films of the year. According to Sacnilk, the film saw a 31 per cent surge in collections, earning Rs 4.8 crore. The film’s total earnings stand at Rs 583.35 crore in India and Rs 780 crore globally, including Rs 90.50 crore from overseas markets, protests in Nagpur.
Critics argue that decades of whitewashing history have led to pent-up resentment, which is now surfacing as citizens are exposed to unfiltered historical narratives. The opposition and left-leaning factions have attempted to downplay the film’s historical significance, but audiences continue to embrace the truth portrayed on screen.
While the Bharatiya government and nationalists have embraced the film, leftist and Islamist circles have shown visible discomfort. The Wire, a left-leaning publication infamous for downplaying atrocities against Hindus, has accused ‘Chhaava’ of inciting hatred. In a YouTube video, The Wire lamented the portrayal of Aurangzeb as a brutal tyrant, exposing their reluctance to accept historical truths.
Reacting to such criticisms, netizens have slammed attempts to suppress factual history. “The truth of Sambhaji Maharaj’s martyrdom cannot be erased. Aurangzeb’s terror is well documented. ‘Chhaava’ has given Indians, especially the youth, a chance to reclaim their history,” said a X user.
Recently, ‘Chhaava’ was linked to Nagpur violence, with reports suggesting that the movie ignited deep-seated resentment towards Aurangzeb’s legacy. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis remarked, “The film has stirred emotions. It has reignited people’s anger against Aurangzeb’s cruelty.”
