Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant has expressed concerns over the upcoming film Chhaava, which features actor Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, urging that the film be screened for “experts” before its official release to ensure historical accuracy and respect for the Maratha king.
धर्मरक्षक,स्वराज्यरक्षक छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज यांच्या जीवनावर आधारित हिंदी चित्रपट बनणे ही आनंदाची गोष्ट आहे, छत्रपतींचा इतिहास जगाला समजावा यासाठी असे प्रयत्न आवश्यक आहे. मात्र या चित्रपटात काही आक्षेपार्ह दृश्ये असल्याबाबत अनेकांनी मते व्यक्त केली आहेत. हा चित्रपट तज्ज्ञ आणि…
— Uday Samant (@samant_uday) January 25, 2025
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava is a historical drama that delves into the life and reign of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and a prominent Maratha warrior king. Samant took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his support for the film’s portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj’s story but emphasized that it is crucial to maintain accuracy and honor when depicting historical figures.
Samant’s Statement:
Samant praised the initiative to bring the story of Sambhaji Maharaj to the big screen but raised concerns about some potentially objectionable scenes in the film. He requested the producers and directors of Chhaava to act responsibly and present the film to experts for their review before its release. He warned that any offensive content could result in the film being “blocked.”
“It is a matter of joy that a Hindi film based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the protector of religion and protector of freedom, is being made. Such efforts are necessary to make the world understand the history of Chhatrapati. However, many have expressed their opinions that there are some objectionable scenes in this film. Our position is that this film should not be released without first showing it to experts and knowledgeable people. Anything that will harm the honor of the Maharaj will not be tolerated,” wrote Samant.
Samant further urged that the film’s producers and directors act swiftly and remove any controversial content. He concluded by stating that a decision on the film’s release will be made after the screening, implying that it would be blocked if necessary changes were not made.
About ‘Chhaava’:
Produced by Maddock Films, Chhaava is set to release on February 14. The film portrays Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s reign starting with his coronation in 1681. Vicky Kaushal plays the lead role, while Rashmika Mandanna also stars in the movie. It is set to highlight the courageous and heroic legacy of Sambhaji Maharaj, known for his efforts to protect both his kingdom and his faith.
The call for screening the film before its release highlights the sensitivity around the portrayal of historical figures and the importance of respecting their legacy.