In a remarkable performance, Vicky Kaushal takes center stage as Chhatrapati Sambhaji in the recently released film Chhaava directed by Laxman Utekar. The film intricately portrays the struggles faced by Sambhaji Maharaj as he defends his kingdom against the expanding Mughal Empire led by the menacing Aurangzeb, played by Akshaye Khanna. While the film showcases a grand spectacle of war and valor, it struggles with pacing and connection, challenging the viewer’s patience at times.
Chhaava captures Sambhaji’s relentless spirit, especially in moments when the character appears consumed by his fervor for Swaraj. One standout scene sees him battling fiercely, even as his comrades fall around him, igniting the film’s overall momentum. However, reaching this climax is not without its bumps, as the narrative occasionally feels dragged out. Initial battle sequences, although visually impressive, lack emotional depth, leaving viewers awaiting a more potent connection with the characters.
At its core, the film is based on the novel Chhaava by Shivaji Sawant and immerses the audience in the rich and tumultuous history of the Maratha empire. Kaushal’s portrayal of Sambhaji is compelling; he embodies the character’s bravery and aggression, making his performance resonate during climactic confrontations, particularly against Aurangzeb. Khanna’s portrayal adds a chilling layer to the antagonist, highlighted by a dramatic vow to wear his crown only after Sambhaji’s defeat, bolstered by his powerful dialogue delivery.
The action sequences in Chhaava are ambitious, ticking off every box on the war drama checklist. The visual grandeur and authenticity of the props stand out, but sadly, the emotional stakes feel somewhat undermined throughout the first half. Even when Kaushal’s Sambhaji heroically saves a child amidst chaos, the expected emotional punch feels absent. As the film progresses, the buildup leads to a gripping crescendo, particularly in the last hour, where Vicky truly showcases his acting prowess in a duel of wills with Khanna’s Aurangzeb.
While the film predominantly focuses on the male leads, the female characters, including Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai, contribute significantly despite their limited screen time. Mandanna’s performance brings depth to her character, though her accent at times does not hit the mark. Likewise, Diana Penty as Zeenat has a vital role but ultimately could have benefited from a more menacing presence. Divya Datta’s portrayal of Soyrabai carries weight, but her character’s potential remains underutilized due to a lack of screen presence.
Critics have pointed out that Chhaava could have been a groundbreaking interpretation of its subject matter, focusing on dialogue-driven tension rather than prolonged action sequences. By avoiding excessive battle cries and emphasizing the emotional and psychological elements of war, the film might have carved out a unique niche within the historical drama genre. Viineet Kumar Singh’s Kavi Kalash brings an additional layer of richness to the narrative, supported by Irshad Kamil’s evocative dialogue contributions.
Despite the challenges faced, the film features an impressive background score by AR Rahman, complementing the emotional landscape of the story. Regrettably, the music does not leave a lasting impression, though the score enhances certain cinematic moments.
In conclusion, while Chhaava presents an ambitious tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Sambhaji, it stumbles under the weight of poor editing and an overemphasis on the superheroic elements of its protagonist. Only in moments where we witness Sambhaji’s humanity does the film connect on a deeper level, making the irony of its execution all the more pronounced.
