Chhaava, the Hindi-language blockbuster, has got a Telugu avatar. The movie was released today on hundreds of screens across the Telugu States.
Story:
The reign of Sambhaji, Shivaji’s son, is admired by his people and feared by his rivals. Aurangzeb, initially celebrating Shivaji’s demise, is shocked by Sambhaji’s brutal attack on Burhanpur. Despite internal court conspiracies and Mughal military might, Sambhaji employs guerrilla tactics to outclass his enemy.
The film portrays Sambhaji’s resilience, and his famed commitment to Swaraj. The conspiracies within the Maratha court, the defections of jagirdars, and the relentless Mughal campaign are introduced. Ultimately, Sambhaji’s sacrifice fuels the continuation of the Maratha struggle.
Analysis:
The Bollywood blockbuster kicks off its narrative with a jaw-dropping precision at times. A whirlwind of familiar scenes and emotions animate the film. What makes Chhaava unique is its relentless sincerity. The performances set the tone for what unfolds in the second half.
Director Laxman Utekar orchestrates a drama that is epic in its treatment. There is a desperate resistance, there are cunning traps, there are guerrilla tactics, and there is a strategy to fend off the enemies. Through and through, Vicky Kaushal’s perfect portrayal of a respected king keeps the audience hooked.
Since its release in Hindi, Chhaava has produced a number of social media debates. The Telugu release is more likely to be accepted for the movie’s dramatic value and the patriotic zeal of its lionized protagonist. There are quite a few whistle-worthy moments in the final 20 minutes. The slogan ‘Jai Bhavani’, often chanted by its good-natured, heroic characters, will strike a chord with the Telugu audience despite its Maratha origin.
Aurangzeb, played by Akshaye Khanna, doesn’t get too many lines to mouth off. The Burhanpur invasion episode, among others, set the tone for the unfolding rivalry between the protagonist and the degenerate Mughal king.
Yesubai (Rashmika Mandanna) is Sambhaji’s wife; the character is respected and given space in the story. Aurangzeb’s daughter Zeenat (Diana Penty) could have been deployed for some dramatic thrills.
Hambirao Mohite (Ashutosh Rana), Kavi Kalash (Vineet Kumar Singh) and Mirza Akbar (Neil Bhoopalam) are well-written characters. While the Hindi film media fraternity and some cinephiles felt that the film is loud, it is not so. At least by southern Indian movie standards. Saurabh Goswami’s cinematography is largely good, while AR Rahman‘s background music clicks.
Verdict:
Chhaava makes for a good watch on the big screen. The ambitious historical action film has commendable performances by Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna, and Rashmika Mandanna. The grand production design adds to the film’s value.
Watch Telugu Online Here
