New Delhi [India], February 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commended the historical period drama Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal, and acknowledged Maharashtra’s crucial role in the growth of both Marathi and Hindi cinema.
Speaking at the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in New Delhi on Friday, PM Modi praised the film, which is based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. He also referenced the historical Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant, which has educated many about the valor of the Maratha ruler.
“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. (It is Maharashtra and Mumbai that have elevated Hindi cinema along with Marathi films. And these days, Chhaava is making waves),” PM Modi said. He also acknowledged the significant role of Shivaji Sawant’s novel in introducing the heroism of Sambhaji Maharaj.
Meanwhile, the film, directed by Laxman Utekar, has been performing impressively at the box office since its release on February 14. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared that Chhaava crossed the Rs 200 crore milestone on Thursday. He posted on Instagram: “200 NOT OUT: CHHAAVA IS SENSATIONAL… RECORD HOLD IN MAHARASHTRA… Chhaava makes a grand entry into the Rs 200 crore club, aided by the #ChhatrapatiShivajiMaharajJayanti holiday boost on Wednesday [Day 6].”
The film collected over Rs 30 crore on Wednesday alone, nearly matching its Valentine’s Day opening numbers. Maharashtra has become the strongest market for Chhaava, with Rajasthan and West Bengal also seeing increased footfalls mid-week.
Chhaava has captivated audiences with its portrayal of the legendary story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, with Vicky Kaushal delivering a standout performance as the Maratha ruler. The film also stars Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in pivotal roles.