Chhaava is an ambitious historical epic that largely succeeds thanks to its riveting second half and a towering central performance from Vicky Kaushal.
The film takes on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, showing his evolution from grief-stricken heir to a warrior king resisting betrayal, Mughal conquest, and the ultimate test of sacrifice.
While the first half struggles with pacing – sprawling introductions, infrequent emotional stakes, and musical interludes that sometimes misread the era – the huge set-pieces and character arcs begin to settle by the interval.
The second half swings into powerful territory: action sequences that pulse with urgency, emotional confrontations that land hard, and an engaging climax that justifies the film’s build-up.
Kaushal embodies Sambhaji with intensity and conviction; his portrayal is both ferocious and heartfelt. Akshaye Khanna is a strong foil as Aurangzeb, bringing chilling menace. Supporting cast members deliver, though many find themselves shortchanged of screen time and depth.
A. R. Rahman’s score shines in key moments, even if some tracks feel stylistically off at times. Visually, Chhaava delivers: sweeping landscapes, bloody battlefields, impressive costume work.
Yes, the film sometimes leans toward mythic heroism over nuanced history, but for a viewer willing to endure a slow start, it rewards with drama, emotion, and spectacle.
Overall, this is a very good film: I’d give it 7.5/10.
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