Chhaava review: Vicky Kaushal’s historical film is both explosive and brutal

New Delhi: Be it Uri: The Surgical Strike, Sardar Udham or Sam Bahadur, Vicky Kaushal has delivered some of the most remarkable performances in a very short span of time. With each release, many label his roles as the ‘best of his career’. And Chhaava is no exception. With this historical drama, the 36-year-old star roars louder and stronger than ever.

An adaptation of Shivaji Sawant’s Marathi novel, Chhaava is based on the life of Maratha king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film not only celebrates the heroism and bravery of the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire but also serves as a powerful lesson in history – one that every generation must carry forward with pride.

The movie begins with Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb receiving news of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s demise. While many in his court breathed a sigh of relief, they remained unaware of the brewing storm in the Maratha Empire that would soon make their nights sleepless.

Chhaava performances

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Vicky Kaushal, as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, poured his blood and sweat into the character. There are some scenes in the film where his sheer dialogue delivery will send shivers down your spine. At times, it feels as though Vicky was born to take on this role, a golden opportunity for him to prove his acting mettle once again.

From the beginning to the end, Vicky ensures Chhaava becomes a one-man show. He exudes both charm and grace while singlehandedly elevating the entertainment quotient. This performance will be remembered for a long time and it wouldn’t be surprising if award functions at the end of the year flood his cabinet with prestigious trophies.

Akshaye Khanna, portraying Aurangzeb, is equally fierce and compelling. Although the duo shares only a few scenes, the moments they have together on screen are pure magic. Sitting in theaters, audiences can feel the tension between them with heartbeats quickening with each intense exchange. Akshaye’s portrayal of Aurangzeb is nothing short of phenomenal.

The biggest surprise in Chhaava turned out to be Vineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash. While Vineet has always been known as a brilliant actor, Chhaava takes his prowess a step further. His presence in the climax, in particular, amplifies the emotional intensity, packing quite a punch.

Other notable performances include Rashmika Mandanna as Maharani Yesubai, Ashutosh Rana as Sarsenapati Hambirao Mohite, Diana Penty as Zinat-un-Nissa Begum and Neil Bhoopalam as Muhammad Akbar. Together, they ensure that Chhaava never falls flat.

What doesn’t work?

While the film is mostly a visual spectacle, the first half feels a little slow and dry compared to the action-packed second half. At times, it feels like a montage of multiple battles playing with limited emotional connection.

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Also, the music doesn’t leave a lasting impression. The songs fail to deliver the adrenaline rush expected during war scenes. However, as the movie progresses, it becomes evident that the makers were saving the best for the last.

What works

Once Chhaava embarks on its biggest mission, there’s no looking back, for both the character and the audience. The story only soars from there, enhancing the cinematic experience. Director Laxman Utekar has done a commendable job, ensuring that viewers take home something to cherish as they step out of the theater.

The grandeur and magnificence that Chhaava brings to the big screen is explosive. Utekar maintains a fast-paced narrative while highlighting key moments in Sambhaji’s life. By the end, Chhaava becomes the perfect blend of drama, action and history.

Chhaava will leave you with a lump in your throat, due to the brutality it showcases, and a sense of pride in your heart, because of the rich history India possesses. It is arguably one of the best cinematic experiences of 2025 so far, with the potential to stay in the hearts of audiences for a long, long time.