Vicky Kaushal is set to bring Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to life in the highly anticipated historical drama Chhaava. The film explores Sambhaji’s journey as he takes over the Maratha throne and fights against the Mughal Empire.
Vicky Kaushal calls Chhaava his “most challenging role” as he transforms into Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
Vicky Kaushal is in full swing promoting his highly anticipated historical drama, Chhaava, where he steps into the shoes of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant warrior and eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film chronicles Sambhaji’s journey as he ascends the throne following his father’s passing, taking on the mighty forces of the Mughal Empire.
During a recent promotional event, Vicky Kaushal spoke passionately about the significance of Chhaava and why the story needs to be told. Addressing an electrified crowd, Vicky declared, “Mere liye mera saubhagya hai ki mujhe Chhatrapati Maharaj ka role nibhaane ka mauka mila.” (It is my great fortune that I got the opportunity to portray Chhatrapati Maharaj.) “I am very grateful to Laxman Utekar and Dinesh Vijay Sir for choosing me for this role. Hamari ek hi koshish hai ki Maharashtra mein to sabko pata hai, bacche-bacchon ko pata hai. Par poori duniya mein, ghar-ghar mein bacche-bacchon ko pata lagna chahiye ki humare raje kaise the?” (While people in Maharashtra know this history well, it is important that every child in every household across the country, and even around the world, learns about the legacy of our great kings.)
As the audience erupted in cheers, Vicky amped up the energy, adding, “I am very excited! Lekin aap sab kaisa excited hain? Bahut zyada! Haan, aap bolna chahiye na—Noise! Exactly! So be very excited!” (I am very excited! But how excited are you? Very much! Yes, you must say it—Noise! Exactly! So be very excited!)
In a recent interview with Radio Nasha, Vicky Kaushal shared how Chhaava pushed him beyond his physical limits. He revealed that director Laxman Utekar was so dedicated to realism that he refused to begin filming until Vicky transformed himself into a warrior—both in appearance and skill. “This has been the most physically demanding role of my career. I had to gain 25 kg of muscle, and it took me seven months of grueling training. Laxman sir was clear—until I had the right warrior physique, mastered horse riding, sword fighting, and all action sequences, filming would not start. He told me, ‘We will not rely on VFX or shortcuts—everything must be authentic.’” Vicky further shared that he had to grow his hair, beard, and develop the stance and strength of a warrior before stepping onto the set. The film features grand-scale battle sequences, shot with complete realism. “If you see 2,000 warriors in a battle scene, there were actually 2,000 people on set. We had 500 of the best stuntmen in the country, and every fight was shot raw and gritty. The energy was electric.”
Apart from Vicky’s intense preparation, Chhaava also boasts a powerful performance by Akshaye Khanna, who plays Aurangzeb, the formidable Mughal emperor. Reflecting on Akshaye’s transformation, Vicky said, “I was shown pictures of his look, and I was stunned. But seeing him in full costume, completely in character, was chilling. His aura, his body language—it was terrifying. He has brought Aurangzeb to life in a way that will truly shock audiences.” Rashmika Mandanna plays Maharani Yesubai, the wife of Sambhaji Maharaj, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
With its epic battle sequences, larger-than-life storytelling, and powerhouse performances, Chhaava is shaping up to be one of the most significant historical films of the year. Set to release on February 14, the film promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally powerful tribute to one of India’s greatest warriors. Fans eagerly await Vicky Kaushal’s most intense and transformative role to date, as Chhaava gears up to bring Sambhaji Maharaj’s indomitable spirit to the big screen.
