The former cricketer’s remark on the lack of education about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in school draws mixed reactions.
February 18, 2025: Aakash Chopra Raises Question on History Curriculum After Watching ‘Chhaava’
The recently released Vicky Kaushal-starrer ‘Chhaava’, which narrates the life and sacrifices of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has been receiving praise across India. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film stars Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj, Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale, and Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb, among other notable names.
While the film has sparked conversations about Maratha history, it also led former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra to question why Sambhaji Maharaj was not included in school history lessons.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Chopra expressed his surprise at the lack of mention of Sambhaji Maharaj in history textbooks, especially when rulers like Akbar and Aurangzeb were extensively taught.
“Watched Chhaava today. Incredible tale of bravery, selflessness, and duty. Genuine question—why were we not taught about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj at all in school? Not even a mention anywhere!!! We did learn how Akbar was a great and fair emperor, and even have a very prominent road called Aurangzeb Road in Delhi. Why and how did it happen??” – Aakash Chopra
Watched Chhaava today. Incredible tale of bravery, selflessness and the sense of duty.
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) February 17, 2025
Genuine question—why were we not taught about Chattrapati Sambhaji Maharaj at all in school? Not even a mention anywhere!!!
We did learn though how Akbar was a great and fair emperor, and…
His remarks sparked a heated debate on social media. While some supported his perspective, others criticized him for falling into political or religious narratives.
A user responded, stating,
“Bcoz, as a failed cricketer, you were also a failed learner of history.”
To which Chopra quickly retorted,
“Topped my school in 12th. Got 80% marks in history. Thank you.”
‘Chhaava’ Continues Strong Run at the Box Office
Amidst this debate, ‘Chhaava’ continues its impressive box office performance, having crossed ₹120 crore within days of its release. The film recorded an overall 62.48% occupancy on its first Sunday, making it one of the highest-grossing historical films in recent times.
Aakash Chopra on IPL 2025 & RCB’s Challenging Schedule
Apart from discussing historical narratives, Aakash Chopra also shared insights on IPL 2025, particularly focusing on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) schedule.
🔹 RCB’s IPL 2025 Fixtures:
- RCB will open their campaign against KKR on March 22 in Kolkata
- Their final league game is also against KKR in Bengaluru on May 17
- The team plays more home games in the latter half of the tournament, a factor that worked in their favor in IPL 2024
Chopra cautioned that RCB’s fixtures against KKR could be tricky, given the Kolkata-based franchise’s dominance over them last season.
“They have three of their last four and four of their last six games at home. The last season made you understand that they are quite okay. However, it’s interesting that they are starting and ending against Kolkata. That could be a tough game,” Chopra added.
Meanwhile, RCB recently appointed Rajat Patidar as their new captain, while Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant will lead PBKS and LSG, respectively.
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Aakash Chopra, Chhaava Movie, Vicky Kaushal, Sambhaji Maharaj, Indian History, Aurangzeb, IPL 2025, RCB, Aakash Chopra on IPL, Cricket News, Historical Movies