The much-awaited historical drama 'Chhaava' is set to release on Netflix on April 11, after a theatrical run that left audiences mesmerized. Laxman Utekar helms the film, which stars Vicky Kaushal as the title character, depicting legendary Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. With grand visuals, powerful performances, and an engaging narrative, Chhaava has been one of the most widely debated films this year.
How Chhaava narrates the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, om screen
Chhaava differs in highlighting the hardships and victories of his son, Sambhaji Maharaj, whose contributions have been commonly overshadowed in historical texts. 'Chhaava,' featuring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, has registered its name as one of the biggest Bollywood day 1 openers of 2025. According to reports, it has collected approximately Rs 13.18 crores on the first. Released on February 14, this Laxman Utekar directorial is a period drama based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj - the Maratha King. The movie is receiving acclaim for its photography and strong performances. As two sides of a coin, there have been some who found it not up to the mark.
The movie highlights the reign of Maharaj Sambhaji, the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji and Jijabai. Rashmika Mandanna portrayed the role of Sambhaji's wife as Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale.
All about Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale
Maratha rule is famous for the bravery and ferocity shown by the empire at different events. It was not only the fearless kings but also their brave queens who proved to be immensely courageous and strong when the kings were away for war.
Maharani Yesubai was the mother of Chhatrapati Sahu I and ruled the kingdom in the absence of the King, Sambhaji. She is remembered as the aggressive queen who was provided with her own seal (Rajmudra) so that she could make political decisions for the kingdom on her own.
Chhatrapati Sambhaji was beheaded by Aurangzeb. After the death, the Maratha queen defended the Raigad fort tooth and nail for a good seven to eight months. However, subsequently, she had to surrender the fort on some conditions that would maintain the security of the royal family intact. She was considered to have played a major role in 'Swarajya' (Self Rule) and for shrewd diplomacy.
But she was kept in captivity by Aurangzeb for nearly 27 long years. But it is said that she used to be in contact with her son, Chhatrapati Sahu Maharaj, through clandestine letters. It is said that she was let go in approximately 1719 after the Maratha empire gained more power.
Rashmika Mandanna on playing 'Maharani Yesubai'
Rashmika Mandanna posted on Instagram and articulated the story of how she landed the role in 'Chhaava.' "A southern girl playing Maharani Yesubai. That was something I never had on my radar. Never thought it was possible, and that's why I love working with people who give us the hope to dream beyond boundaries. And then the maharani came in all her glory. She is fierce; she is powerful; she is graceful; she is a true queen. Her love is the love I truly relate to - it's so pure, so divine, so respectful, and so true that Maharaj and Maharani are always connected beyond just words." She wrote.