Chhaava" is a 2025 Indian Hindi-language epic historical action film directed by Laxman Utekar, featuring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, with Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in pivotal roles. The film, based on Shivaji Sawant's Marathi novel "Chhava," was released on February 14, 2025, and has garnered a range of critical responses.

Critical Reception:

• The Quint: Pratikshya Mishra rated the film 2.5 stars, noting that while Vicky Kaushal delivers a compelling performance, the film itself lacks the courage to fully embrace its subject matter.

• Rediff: Prasanna Zore awarded "Chhaava" 4 out of 5 stars, praising the film's ambition in portraying Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, despite some historical inaccuracies.

• Zee News: The review highlighted the film's blend of action and historical significance, emphasizing its emotional depth, and gave it 4 out of 5 stars.

• The Week: Pooja Biraia Jaiswal rated the film 3.5 stars, commending its grandeur, intense action sequences, and engaging narrative.

• News18: Nishad Thaivalappil gave a 3.5-star rating, highlighting Vicky Kaushal's portrayal and the film's effective depiction of Sambhaji Maharaj's legacy.

• Times Now: Kusumika Das also awarded 3.5 stars, acknowledging Laxman Utekar's commendable storytelling and Vicky Kaushal's fierce performance.

• The Times of India: Renuka Vyavahare rated it 3.5 stars, noting the film's gripping second half and powerful climax.

• Filmfare: Devesh Sharma gave 3.5 stars, praising Kaushal's performance but suggesting the film could have delved deeper into Sambhaji's complexities.

• The Indian Express: Shubhra Gupta rated the film 2.5 stars, describing it as "ultra-loud, ultra-violent, and exhausting," despite Kaushal's commitment.

• NDTV: Saibal Chatterjee also gave 2.5 stars, acknowledging Kaushal's noteworthy performance but critiquing the film's depth.

• India Today: Tushar Joshi commented that while "Chhaava" doesn't aim to be exceptionally different, it successfully navigates mainstream cinema without being overwhelmed by its own narrative.

• The Hollywood Reporter India: Rahul Desai observed that the film is "neither romanticised nor pulpy," but seems hesitant, focusing on deities and demons rather than human complexities.

• The Hindu: Anuj Kumar noted the film's struggle between historical accuracy and contemporary nationalist sentiments, finding its voice in the finale.

• Scroll.in: Nandini Ramnath pointed out the film's lack of emotional depth, with dramatic visuals overshadowing genuine passion.

Box Office Performance:

"Chhaava" had a strong opening, especially in Maharashtra, grossing significant figures in India. It collected approximately ₹200 crore worldwide in its opening weekend, reflecting its commercial success.

In summary, "Chhaava" offers a visually grand portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's life, with Vicky Kaushal's performance receiving widespread acclaim. However, opinions on the film's narrative depth and historical accuracy vary among critics.