Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna’s historical epic Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar, has taken the box office by storm, crossing Rs 800 crore globally and capturing the hearts of audiences, particularly in Maharashtra.

Based on the life of the revered Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the film’s success story is as much about cultural pride as cinematic achievement.

Veteran actor and filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar recently shared his perspective on the film’s phenomenal run. Offering a candid take, he suggested that Chhaava’s historic performance at the box office was driven less by star power and more by the enduring reverence for the character it portrayed. Speaking in Marathi, he pointed out that while Vicky Kaushal is a talented actor, the crowds were drawn by their admiration for Sambhaji Maharaj rather than the actor himself, noting that Vicky Kaushal’s previous 5 films had not witnessed such overwhelming turnout.

Mahesh Manjrekar also stressed that it was Maharashtra’s emotional connection to its historical icons that fueled the movie’s success. He asserted that a vast majority of the credit for Chhaava’s performance belongs to the state, particularly to regions like Pune and its surroundings, highlighting how Maharashtra’s deep-rooted pride in its history can revitalize the Hindi film industry.

Trade reports show that the film has collected over Rs 600 crore domestically, with its worldwide earnings reaching an impressive Rs 807.6 crore.

Directed by Laxman Utekar, known for hits like Mimi and Luka Chuppi, Chhaava features Vicky Kaushal in a commanding portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj, with Rashmika Mandanna playing his wife Yesubai Bhonsale. The film also includes notable performances from Akshaye Khanna, Ashutosh Rana and Divya Dutta.

Produced by Dinesh Vijan under the Maddock Films banner, Chhaava has become more than just a box office success — it stands as a tribute to a legacy cherished deeply by millions.

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