Chhaava is a 2025 Indian Hindi-language historical action film directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films. The film stars Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, and is based on Shivaji Sawant's Marathi novel Chhava. The cast also includes Rashmika Mandanna as Maharani Yesubai and Akshaye Khanna as Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

Chhaava chronicles the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Following his father's demise, Sambhaji ascends the throne and faces relentless challenges from the Mughal Empire, led by Aurangzeb. The film delves into his valiant efforts to protect the Maratha Empire and uphold the spirit of Swarajya (self-rule). 

 Cast & Characters

  • Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

  • Rashmika Mandanna as Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale

  • Akshaye Khanna as Emperor Aurangzeb

  • Ashutosh Rana, Divya Dutta, Vineet Kumar Singh, Neil Bhoopalam, Diana Penty, and Santosh Juvekar in supporting roles

 Production Details

  • Director: Laxman Utekar

  • Producer: Dinesh Vijan (Maddock Films)

  • Adaptation: Based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant

  • Music Composer: A. R. Rahman

  • Lyricists: Irshad Kamil and Kshitij Patwardhan

  • Filming Period: October 2023 to May 2024

  • Theatrical Release: February 14, 2025

  • Telugu Dubbed Release: March 7, 2025

  • Streaming Platform: Available on Netflix 

 Budget & Box Office

  • Budget: Estimated ₹150 crore

  • Box Office Collection: Over ₹509.75 crore worldwide, making it the highest-grossing Hindi film of 2025 

 Critical Reception

Chhaava received acclaim for its grand scale, action sequences, and Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj. However, some critics pointed out the "superherofication" of the historical figure. Rashmika Mandanna's performance as Maharani Yesubai garnered mixed reviews, with some praising her screen presence and others critiquing her Hindi diction