I went to the theater to watch the movie Chhaava, which was released in theaters on February 14, 2025, and released in Telugu dubbed version in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on March 7, 2025 by Geetha Arts. There is a lot of buzz about this historical action drama directed by Laxman Utekar, based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's son, Shambhaji Maharaj. The acting of Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna, the music of AR Rahman, and the inspiration from Shivaji Sawant's novel Chhaava—all of it together raised my expectations high. Did this movie fill me with goosebumps? Or did it disappoint? Let me tell you about my feelings, the movie's highlights, and some of its shortcomings in this review!
What is the story?
Chhaava (meaning: Lion Child) depicts the life of Chhatrapati Shambhaji Maharaj (Vicky Kaushal) and his relentless struggle against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb (Akshaye Khanna) between 1680-1689. Aurangzeb, feeling that the Maratha Empire has been weakened by the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, plans to invade the Deccan. But, carrying forward his father's spirit of Swaraj, Shambhaji holds back the Mughal army with guerrilla warfare and clever tactics. The attack on Burhanpur, Aurangzeb's anger, internal betrayal, and the end of Shambhaji—the film is an emotional journey full of courage, sacrifice and patriotism. Rashmika Mandanna plays Shambhaji's wife Yesubai, with Ashutosh Rana, Diana Penty and Divya Dutta in other key roles.
My Feelings: A roaring climax, heart-pounding scenes
The Burhanpur battle sequence gave me goosebumps shortly after the movie started. The scene where Vicky Kaushal roars as Shambhaji, and charges into battle chanting “Om Namah Parvati Pathaye Hara Hara Mahadev”, filled my heart with a sense of excitement. I was even happier to know that director Utekar retained Vicky’s improvised dialogue in this scene. In the second half, especially in the climax, the scenes of Shambhaji’s bond and his confrontation with Aurangzeb brought tears to my eyes. The way Shambhaji fought for his Swaraj till his last breath and his unwavering courage left me speechless. I didn't think these scenes were as brutal as The Passion of the Christ until I saw them, but even in that agony, Sambhaji's self-respect touched my heart.
Rashmika was very emotional as Yesubai in some scenes, but her accent was a bit distracting. Akshaye Khanna exuded cold fear as Aurangzeb—the ego and cruelty in his eyes captivated the screen. The scenes showing the father-son bond, pressure, and expectations between Sambhaji and Shivaji connected me emotionally. However, the first half felt a bit slow and political developments. Some of the action sequences felt repetitive and over-dramatic.
Technical aspects, acting
Cinematography (Saurabh Goswami) is amazing! Forts, battlefields, sunset shots—every frame is like a painting. The lighting, especially in the climax, lends a mythological touch to the story. While AR Rahman's background score works well in the action scenes, the songs (like 'Jaane Tu') don't quite fit the period setting. The electric guitar and piano sound a bit out of place. It would have been better if music directors like Ajay-Atul had been in charge. The editing (Manish Pradhan) had been tighter at times, but the 2 hour 41 minute runtime would have been crisper.
Vicky Kaushal really lives up to his role as Shambhaji. His delivery, fire in the action scenes, depth in the emotional scenes—he proves himself once again as a fine actor. Akshaye Khanna is mesmerizing as Aurangzeb. His subtle expressions and prosthetic look dominate the screen. Rashmika has less screen time, but she does well in her scenes, but her accent seemed to be an issue. Ashutosh Rana, Vineet Kumar Singh, and Diana Penty are good in supporting roles.
Likes and Disappointments
Likes:
Vicky Kaushal's ferocious performance—He is adamant as Shambhaji.
Climax—Emotional, brutal, intense. Heart-wrenching moments.
Cinematography, visuals—Show the grandeur of the Maratha empire wonderfully.
Telugu dubbing—Dialogues carry the intensity well.
Scenes that elevate Shambhaji's courage and desire for independence.
Disappointments:
First half slow pace, some dragged scenes.
AR Rahman's songs are not set to the period setting.
Some of the action sequences felt over-cinematic and repetitive.
Shambhaji's character depth and other supporting roles needed more screen time.
The historical balance seemed to be missing at some points.
Who should watch it?
Chhaava is an emotional ride for those who love historical action dramas and Maratha history. This is a must-watch for Vicky Kaushal fans, and his performance alone makes the ticket worth the price. With a TV-MA rating, sensitive viewers should watch it with caution due to the battle scenes and brutal violence in the climax. Since the Telugu dubbing is good, it will give a big screen experience to Telugu audiences as well. It is also streaming on Netflix from April 10, 2025, so those who missed the theater can watch it there.
Rating: 3.5/5
Chhaava is a roaring historical epic, Vicky Kaushal's ferocious performance, stunning visuals, and an intense climax that hooked me. Seeing the courage and desire for Swarajya of Sambhaji Maharaj on screen is heart-warming. However, the slow first half, some stretched scenes, and the music not fitting the setting are a bit disappointing. This is a gripping experience for those who love Maratha history and action dramas. Goosebumps are guaranteed if you watch it in the theater, but keep your tissue box ready!
Release Date: February 14, 2025 (Hindi), March 7, 2025 (Telugu)
Streaming: Netflix (from April 10, 2025)
Director: Laxman Utekar
Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Ashutosh Rana
Music: AR Rahman