Chhaava: A Box Office Sensation – Vicky Kaushal’s Historical Epic Roars to Success

Vicky Kaushal’s latest historical drama, Chhaava, has taken the Indian film industry by storm. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film brings to life the heroic saga of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Alongside Vicky Kaushal, the movie stars Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai, Sambhaji Maharaj’s wife, adding emotional depth to the narrative.

Released on February 14, 2025, “Chhaava” was one of the most anticipated films of the year, and it has more than lived up to expectations. The film’s grandeur, intense performances, and powerful storytelling have captivated audiences across the country.

Box Office Performance: Chhaava’s Record-Breaking Run

Opening Weekend Collection

“Chhaava” has made history at the box office with record-breaking numbers in its opening weekend. It opened to an impressive ₹33.10 crore on its first day, making it the biggest Valentine’s Day opener in Bollywood history. The momentum continued over the weekend, with the film collecting ₹36.5 crore on Saturday, bringing its two-day total to ₹67.5 crore. On Sunday, the film surpassed all expectations, adding approximately ₹48.5 crore, bringing the first weekend total to ₹117 crore.

Biggest Opener of 2025 So Far

With this massive opening, “Chhaava” has officially become the biggest Bollywood opener of 2025, surpassing previous releases such as Sky Force. This achievement also marks Vicky Kaushal’s career-best opening, surpassing his previous hits like Uri: The Surgical Strike and Sam Bahadur.

Weekday Box Office Trend

Industry analysts predict that “Chhaava” will continue its strong run over the weekdays. With 6 AM and midnight shows added across Maharashtra to meet audience demand, the film is expected to sustain its momentum. Trade experts estimate that the film could cross the ₹150 crore mark within its first week.

Audience Reception: A Resounding Applause

The film has received a thunderous response from audiences across India, particularly in Maharashtra, where the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj holds immense significance. Fans have been seen performing aartis and even pouring milk over the film’s posters as a sign of their reverence and appreciation.

Social media platforms are flooded with fan reactions, praising Vicky Kaushal for his intense performance and the film’s breathtaking visuals. Many fans have drawn comparisons between “Chhaava” and historical blockbusters like Bajirao Mastani and Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, with some even calling it “the most emotionally powerful historical film in recent years.”

Key Highlights from Audience Reactions:

• Vicky Kaushal’s Performance – Many fans believe this is his best performance to date, with some even calling for a National Award nomination.
• Historical Accuracy – While the film takes cinematic liberties, audiences have praised the detailed production design and costumes that transport viewers to the era of the Marathas.
• Powerful Action Sequences – The film’s battle sequences and sword fights have been particularly well-received, drawing comparisons to Hollywood epics like Gladiator and Braveheart.
• Musical Score – The background score, composed by Amit Trivedi, has been described as goosebump-inducing, especially during the war scenes.
• Emotional Depth – The relationship between Sambhaji Maharaj and Yesubai has struck a chord with audiences, adding a layer of personal struggle and sacrifice to the grand historical narrative.

Critical Reception: Divided Opinions

Positive Reviews

Several film critics have praised Chhaava for its grand scale, emotionally charged narrative, and powerful performances. Many have highlighted Vicky Kaushal’s intense transformation, calling it the most challenging role of his career. The film’s climax, in particular, has been described as deeply moving and unforgettable.

Some critics have also appreciated the direction by Laxman Utekar, who is known for films like Mimi and Luka Chuppi. While he has previously worked on light-hearted films, “Chhaava” marks his entry into big-scale historical dramas, and he has delivered a visually spectacular film.

Mixed and Negative Reviews

However, not all reviews have been glowing. Some critics have pointed out that the film relies heavily on loud dialogues and dramatic action, which might not appeal to everyone. A few have also mentioned that the pacing in the first half is slow, while the second half delivers a powerful punch.

While some critics have called “Chhaava” a gripping historical drama, others have labeled it “over-the-top and exhausting”. The background music, while praised by audiences, has been deemed too overpowering by some reviewers.

Performances: The Driving Force Behind Chhaava

Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

Vicky Kaushal’s transformation into Sambhaji Maharaj has been nothing short of spectacular. From his physique to his body language and dialect, he has put in months of rigorous preparation to bring authenticity to the role. His action sequences, intense emotional moments, and powerful monologues have received widespread acclaim.

Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai

Rashmika Mandanna, in a departure from her usual roles, plays Yesubai, the strong and resilient wife of Sambhaji Maharaj. While her screen time is limited, her performance has been noted for its grace and strength, portraying a woman torn between duty and personal loss.

Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb

Akshaye Khanna delivers a menacing performance as Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. His portrayal of the ruthless ruler adds layers of tension and conflict to the story. His dialogue delivery and cold, calculating demeanor make him one of the most formidable antagonists in recent Bollywood history.

Cinematography, Direction, and Music: A Technical Masterpiece

Cinematography

The film’s cinematography, handled by Akash Agarwal, captures the grandeur of the Maratha Empire with breathtaking visuals. The battle scenes, in particular, are shot with remarkable precision, creating an immersive experience for the audience.

Direction

Laxman Utekar’s shift from light-hearted dramas to historical action epics has been commendable. His direction ensures that the film remains engaging while balancing historical accuracy with cinematic appeal.

Music and Background Score

The soundtrack, composed by Amit Trivedi, blends traditional Marathi folk music with grand orchestral scores. Songs like “Shivgarjana” and “Veer Maratha” have already become audience favorites.

OTT Release and Future Prospects

Following its blockbuster run in theaters, Chhaava is expected to release on Netflix, making it accessible to a global audience. The film’s strong performance in overseas markets suggests that international viewers will also embrace the historical epic.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Spectacle

“Chhaava” is more than just a historical drama; it is a cinematic experience that immerses audiences in the bravery and sacrifice of Sambhaji Maharaj. While the film has some pacing issues and a loud narrative style, its gripping performances, powerful dialogues, and grand battle sequences make it a must-watch for history enthusiasts and Bollywood fans alike.

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

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Discussion Starter: What Are Your Thoughts on Chhaava?

Do you think “Chhaava” is one of the best historical films of recent times, or do you believe it could have been better? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!