January 27, 2025: Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant has raised serious concerns regarding the upcoming period drama Chhaava, which is based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
The film, starring Vicky Kaushal in the lead role, portrays the life and reign of the Maratha king, and the minister has specifically objected to a scene where the historical figure is shown dancing.
Samant, while expressing his appreciation for the effort to bring Sambhaji Maharaj’s story to the big screen, emphasized the importance of ensuring historical accuracy and respect for the Maratha king. He suggested that the film should be shown to historians and scholars before its release to avoid any content that could be seen as disrespectful or offensive.
Speaking to the media, Samant made it clear that if historians and scholars raised objections about the film, particularly about the dance scene, the film’s release would be blocked. He even went as far as urging the film’s director Laxman Utekar to remove the controversial scene, underlining that any offensive content that could harm the honor of Sambhaji Maharaj would not be tolerated.
The film, produced by Maddock Films, also stars Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna. It is being marketed as an inspirational tale of the Maratha ruler’s courageous reign, beginning with his coronation in 1681. However, Samant’s concerns reflect the sensitivity surrounding how historical figures are depicted, especially in a cultural and political context where such portrayals hold deep significance.
Samant’s statements have sparked discussions about the responsibility of filmmakers in ensuring that historical dramas balance artistic freedom with respect for cultural and historical figures. The final decision regarding the film’s release will likely depend on whether the content is revised based on the feedback from historians and experts in the field.