Chhaava - 2025 film
Chhaava - 2025 film
Directed by:-Laxman Utekar
Screenplay by:-Laxman Utekar
Rishi Virmani
Kaustubh Savarkar
Unman Bankar
Omkar Mahajan
Dialogues by:-Rishi Virmani
Irshad Kamil
Based on Chhava by :-Shivaji Sawant
Produced by:-Dinesh Vijan
Starring:-Vicky Kaushal
Rashmika Mandanna
Akshaye Khanna
Cinematography:-Saurabh Goswami
Edited by:-Manish Pradhan
Music by:-A. R. Rahman
Production company:-Maddock Films
Distributed by:-Pen Marudhar (India)
Yash Raj Films
Release date:-14 February 2025
Country:-India
Language:-Hindi
"Chhaava" is an upcoming Bollywood historical drama that delves into the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant Maratha warrior king and successor to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced under the Maddock Films banner by Dinesh Vijan, the film is slated for release on December 6, 2024.
Cast and Crew
- Vicky Kaushal stars as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, bringing to life the complexities of the Maratha ruler.
- Rashmika Mandanna portrays Maharani Yesubai, Sambhaji's wife, adding depth to the narrative.
- Akshaye Khanna takes on the role of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, presenting the adversarial force in the story.
- The ensemble cast also includes Divya Dutta, Pradeep Rawat, Ashutosh Rana, Neil Bhoopalam, Santosh Juvekar, and Prakash Raj, each contributing significantly to the film's portrayal of this historical era.
Production Insights
The journey to authentically depict the 17th-century Maratha empire involved extensive research. Director Laxman Utekar and costume designer Sheetal Sharma dedicated a year to studying the art, architecture, and culture of that period. Their research took them to historical towns such as Aurangabad, Ratnagiri, Pune, Nashik, and Paithan, ensuring that the film's settings and costumes resonate with historical accuracy.
Filming commenced in October 2023 and concluded in May 2024. The production team meticulously recreated significant locations and battle sequences, employing a blend of practical effects and CGI to capture the grandeur of the Maratha empire. The film's music, composed by the renowned A. R. Rahman, is anticipated to enhance the narrative's emotional and dramatic depth.
Teaser and Audience Reception
The teaser for "Chhaava" was unveiled on August 19, 2024, offering audiences a glimpse into the epic tale. While it showcased Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj, some viewers noted the absence of Rashmika Mandanna's character, Maharani Yesubai, sparking discussions and anticipation for her role in the film.
Controversies and Criticisms
Upon the release of the teaser, the film faced scrutiny over historical inaccuracies. Critics pointed out a scene depicting Sambhaji Maharaj dancing, which they argued was inconsistent with historical records. Additionally, the omission of the term "Hindavi Swarajya," central to the Maratha identity, drew criticism from purists and historians alike.
Conclusion
"Chhaava" aims to present a cinematic portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's life, highlighting his valor, leadership, and the challenges he faced during his reign. As the release date approaches, audiences eagerly await to see how this historical narrative is brought to life on the big screen.
Casting and filming
Laxman Utekar discussed his upcoming film with Vicky Kaushal during the shoot of Zara Hatke Zara Bachke (2023).In January 2023, Utekar confirmed that Kaushal would portray Sambhaji, marking their second collaboration following Zara Hatke Zara Bachke. Utekar mentioned that Kaushal would undergo four months of training in sword fighting, horse riding, and that shooting would begin once they were satisfied with his preparation.In August 2023, it was reported that Marathi actor Santosh Juvekar would play a pivotal role in the film. During the same month, Juvekar and Kaushal underwent horse riding training in the Mumbai suburbs. During trailer launch, Kaushal revealed that he was trained in sword, stick, and spear fighting for 6-7 months. He also gained 25 kg weight for the role.
By October 2023, it was reported that Kaushal had started his preparations for the film alongside co-star Rashmika Mandanna.The same month, Ashutosh Rana and Divya Dutta join cast as Hambirrao Mohite and Soyarabai, respectively.Dutta later discussed her portrayal in an interview with Mid-Day in December 2024.On 4 December 2023, Pradeep Rawat joined the film's cast. Mandanna wrapped up her portion of filming in January 2024, while Kaushal resumed filming in Wai on 9 March 2024, continuing until 6 April 2024.On 23 April 2024, Santosh Juvekar completed his portions.
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