“Chhaava” Movie Review: A Visually Stunning but Uneven Tribute to a Maratha Warrior

“Chhaava,” directed by Laxman Utekar, is a cinematic portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant son of Shivaji, who ascended the Maratha throne and faced formidable challenges during his reign. The film endeavors to shed light on Sambhaji’s legacy, a chapter often overshadowed in mainstream historical narratives.

Vicky Kaushal delivers a compelling performance as Sambhaji, embodying the warrior’s spirit with intensity and dedication. His portrayal captures the complexities of a leader torn between duty and personal sacrifice, earning him accolades as one of his finest performances to date.

The film’s visual aesthetics are noteworthy. Cinematographer Saurabh Goswami masterfully balances light, earthy tones, and movement, creating a visual treat that immerses the audience in the era. Battle sequences are meticulously choreographed, drawing parallels to iconic scenes from productions like “300” and “Game of Thrones.”

However, “Chhaava” is not without its shortcomings. The narrative grapples with pacing issues, particularly in the first half, where the storyline feels disjointed and struggles to find its rhythm. The film’s tone oscillates, making it challenging for viewers to fully engage with the characters’ journeys.

The supporting cast delivers mixed performances. Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal of Aurangzeb is effective, bringing a nuanced antagonist to life. Vineet Kumar Singh, as Kavi Kalash, shares poignant scenes with Kaushal, adding depth to the narrative. Conversely, the female characters, including Rashmika Mandanna’s Yesubai and Diana Penty’s Zeenat, are underutilized, leaving their roles feeling superficial and lacking impact.

Musically, A.R. Rahman’s compositions are a mixed bag. While tracks like “Aaya Re Toofan” resonate with the film’s themes, others, such as “Jaane Tu,” seem out of place given the historical setting, disrupting the narrative’s flow.

The film’s climax is both its strength and its Achilles’ heel. The depiction of Sambhaji’s capture and subsequent torture is unflinchingly brutal, drawing parallels to Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ.” While aiming for a visceral impact, this prolonged sequence borders on excessive, potentially alienating viewers with its graphic nature.

In conclusion, “Chhaava” is a film that aspires to honor a Maratha hero’s legacy, bolstered by Vicky Kaushal’s stellar performance and impressive visuals. However, its uneven narrative, underdeveloped supporting characters, and overtly violent sequences may leave audiences with mixed feelings. It’s a cinematic endeavor that, while ambitious, doesn’t fully realize its potential.