Laxman Utekar’s much-anticipated historical drama, Chhaava, dropped its trailer yesterday, and while it created ripples of excitement among some audiences, it also ignited a fiery backlash from history enthusiasts and purists. The controversy? The absence of the word Hindavi in a key dialogue and an unexpected scene of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj dancing, which has left many fuming.
The Chhaava trailer features Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, but a particular section of viewers, deeply rooted in historical pride, took offense at the portrayal. The idea of Sambhaji Raje, a revered warrior-king, dancing has been labeled by critics as Bollywood’s attempt to dilute his heroic legacy. For many, this depiction tarnishes the image of a leader who dedicated his life to defending his people and faith. YouTuber Pratik Borade has shared his views in a video, which has also attracted negative feedback from fans.
One netizen vented, “I hated it when Sambhaji Raje was shown dancing. Why does Bollywood feel the need to add its touch everywhere? Our king was a warrior and a protector of Dharma, not someone who danced for entertainment. This is a disrespect to his legacy.”
Adding fuel to the fire, the dialogue inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s vision—“He Hindavi Swaraj Vhave He Shrinchi Ichaa” (This Hindavi Swarajya is the divine will)—was shortened in the trailer to merely “He Rajya Vhave.” This omission of the term Hindavi, which signifies the inclusive and unified identity of Swarajya, has been perceived by many as an intentional erasure of historical and cultural significance.
A viewer expressed their anger, writing, “I have grown up hearing the mantra ‘हे हिंदवी स्वराज्य व्हावे ही श्रींची इच्छा.’ Bollywood has deliberately removed it to push their liberal agenda. This is unacceptable!”
Another echoed the sentiment, “They used the word Swarajya but not Hindavi Swarajya. It’s shameful how they’re trying to restrict Sambhaji Maharaj’s vision to a regional identity.”
The trailer has also drawn criticism for allegedly giving unnecessary respect to Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. A poster referring to Akshaye Khanna’s character as Mughal Shahenshah Aurangzeb has sparked outrage, with some arguing that the title could have been kept simpler.
A user questioned, “Why write ‘Mughal Shahenshah Aurangzeb’? Simply calling him Aurangzeb would have sufficed. Why glorify him with such titles?”
The backlash doesn’t stop at dialogues and titles. Many have pointed out the scaled-down depiction of Sambhaji Maharaj’s Rajyabhishek (coronation). Historical records suggest the event was attended by over one lakh people, yet the trailer portrays it on a much smaller scale.
One comment read, “The scale of the coronation scene is so underwhelming. Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation had over a lakh attendees. Why is Sambhaji Maharaj’s event shown on such a small scale? The makers must correct this.”
The trailer has left many feeling disheartened and disappointed with Bollywood’s approach to historical dramas. Critics argue that such films should strive for authenticity and respect rather than adding unnecessary creative liberties that distort historical truths.
As one viewer passionately put it, “Bollywood has no boundaries when it comes to disrespecting our history. Sambhaji Maharaj was a symbol of courage, and they’ve reduced him to just another Bollywood character. If they don’t fix these flaws, the film will not do justice to his legacy.”
The controversy surrounding Chhaava has already set the stage for heated debates. While some await the film with hope for historical justice, others demand changes before its release to ensure the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is preserved with dignity. The ball is now in the makers’ court to address these concerns—or face the consequences of public disappointment.
