छा गया “छावा“ !!

छा गया “छावा”! A Spectacular Cinematic Triumph : My quick take on Vicky Kaushal’s “Chaava” (theatrical release)

I always wondered—why can’t we make films of the caliber of 300 or Troy, despite having far richer stories in our glorious past? Well, it seems Laxman Utekar has heard my plea. With Chaava, he delivers a visually opulent spectacle, Hollywood-level action, and award-worthy performances. Take a bow, Utekar! He hasn’t just created a magnum opus—this is a monster opus!

This historical epic brings to life the extraordinary saga of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, a warrior who defied the might of the Mughal empire. The film captures the nine-year-long struggle of Aurangzeb to capture this indomitable “Chaava”, a Herculean task indeed. The screenplay might feel tight and condensed, but how else can one encapsulate the legacy of a warrior who won over 140 battles into just three hours? Perhaps, this story truly deserves a multi-season web series!

To make up for the constraints, the makers focus on high-impact action set pieces and deeply moving emotional moments—and they deliver spectacularly!

With a hand-picked cast, every performance is a treat. Ashutosh Rana, Vineet Kumar, and Rashmika Mandanna are simply brilliant. However, it’s Akshaye Khanna as the wily Aurangzeb who steals the show—his few but piercing dialogues, masterful body language, and impeccable portrayal of an aging, ruthless emperor make for a mesmerizing watch.

This is a true ‘Mogambo’ moment for Akshaye Khanna—a role that will be remembered for years to come. With minimal dialogues, commanding presence, and impeccable expressions, he makes Aurangzeb feel both fearsome and vulnerable, a rare combination that only a master actor can achieve.

A special mention must go to the makeup and prosthetics team—Aurangzeb’s aging process is flawlessly executed, and Akshaye Khanna enacts it beautifully. However, the same attention to aging was mysteriously missing for Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, who remain unchanged despite the nine-year time span. Chalo, one can ignore this lapse.

Rashmika Mandanna exudes royal grace and swag, lighting up every scene she’s in. But the true heartbeat of the film is Vicky Kaushal—he looked like Chaava, fought like Chaava, but roared like Simbha. This is his moment!

Fittingly, today is both Valentine’s Day and Shaurya Diwas, the anniversary of the URI revenge, and once again, Vicky pumps ‘Josh’ into the audience!

The production design is breathtaking, bringing the Maratha era to life with grand forts, intricate costumes, and authentic period detailing. The costume and drapery artists deserve special applause for their research, ensuring even the jewelry, armor, and colors reflect historical accuracy.

The action choreography is top-notch, matching the scale and intensity of any Hollywood production. Every swordfight, war tactic, and hand-to-hand combat sequence is crafted with precision and power. The dialogues are highly motivating yet never jingoistic, making them stirring and memorable.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Every Indian!

More than just a film, Chaava is an emotion, a tribute, and a celebration of one of India’s greatest warriors. It’s a film that commands respect, evokes pride, and leaves you in awe.

छावा, थिएटरमध्ये जरूर पहावा!