March5, 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, recently showered praise on the period drama Chhaava, a film that portrays the inspiring life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The screening of the film, organized for MLAs and MLCs, saw Fadnavis congratulate the filmmakers for their portrayal of the life and legacy of the Maratha ruler.
“A very beautiful movie has been made. Our colleague minister, Aditi Tatkare, has organized this screening today for all MLAs and MLCs…” Fadnavis said while speaking to the media. He further emphasized the importance of Chhaava in highlighting the bravery and contributions of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who, as the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, played a crucial role in protecting Swarajya after his father’s death.
Fadnavis expressed how history had often done injustice to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj but noted that the film brings to light his valour, intelligence, and sacrifice. “Through this movie, his valour, bravery, cleverness, intelligence, knowledge, all these aspects of his life are coming in front of the public,” he added. He further lauded the movie for shedding light on Sambhaji Maharaj’s continuous protection of Swarajya after Shivaji Maharaj’s passing and congratulated the entire film team for bringing this story to life.
Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar, stars Vicky Kaushal in the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Akshaye Khanna as Emperor Aurangzeb. The movie also features Rashmika Mandanna and Divya Dutta in pivotal roles.
Prime Minister Modi’s Recognition for ‘Chhaava’
In February, Chhaava received a special mention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address at the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in New Delhi. PM Modi highlighted the immense contribution of Maharashtra and Mumbai in the evolution of both Marathi and Hindi cinema, with a special mention of Chhaava, stating, “Ye Maharashtra aur Mumbai hi hai jisne Marathi filmon ke saath-saath, Hindi cinema ko ye unchai di hai. Aur in dino toh, Chhaava ki dhoom machi hui hai.” (Maharashtra and Mumbai have elevated Hindi cinema along with Marathi films, and Chhaava is making waves these days).
PM Modi also praised Shivaji Sawant’s historical Marathi novel Chhava, which introduced the story of Sambhaji Maharaj to a wider audience and served as an inspiration for the film.
Touched by the Prime Minister’s recognition, Vicky Kaushal shared his gratitude on Instagram, resharing PM Modi’s post with the caption, “Honoured beyond words! Grateful to Hon. PM Narendra Modi Ji. #Chhaava.”
Rashmika Mandanna, who plays Yesubai in the film, also expressed her thanks on social media, writing, “Thank you @narendramodi sir. It’s truly an honour.