Maddock Films’ Chhaava is set to release in theatres on February 14, 2025. Vicky Kaushal’s fierce look in the trailer has stirred up excitement in the audience. The film will take us back in time to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s rule and lineage and the emergence of his son, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. But do you know what Chhaava means and why Sambhaji was called so? Before watching it on the big screen, let’s dive into this interesting tale to understand the film better.

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How Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj came to power

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the creator of the Maratha empire, was a charismatic figure who played a significant role in Indian history. Ancient tales narrating his power and wisdom will send a chill down your spine. His physical strength and political skills were more than commendable. But his treasure was something that his enemies kept eyeing. It attracted people so much that even his enemies tried to compete to be his spiritual sons.

However, his real sons, who were entitled to his throne, kept fighting amongst each other to claim it first. When Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj died due to illness, Chhatrapati Sambhaji, his eldest son from his first wife, Saibai, was compelled to inherit his legacy.

The story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj aka Chhaava

Sambhaji was truly his father’s shadow, and he reflected a warrior personality. Owing to his bravery, the people of the Maratha kingdom bestowed him with the title Chhaava, a lion’s cub. Chhatrapati Shivaji’s second wife, Sarobai, was eager to make her 10-year-old son the ruler after her husband’s demise. However, with the intervention of the commander-in-chief of the Maratha clan, Hambirrao Mohite, Sambhaji was made the successor. Consequently, Sarobai, her son, and their supporters were put under house arrest for attempting to throw Sambhaji off the throne.

Chhatrapati Sambhaji followed his father’s footsteps to expand the Maratha kingdom by conquering more territories. His successful rise gained the attention of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. This increased tensions between them, leading to the Battle of Wai in 1687. Sambhaji succeeded in defeating the Mughal army in this battle. However, this victory was short-lived as Hambirrao Mohite was killed in the war. Soon after, Aurangzeb captured Sambhaji, asking him to surrender and convert to Islam. Sambhaji did not comply and was tortured and eventually executed by the Mughals.

Who is Yesubai Bhonsale?

Chhaava‘s trailer also revealed Rashmika Mandanna’s role in the movie. She plays Yesubai Bhonsale, the wife of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Yesubai, often regarded as Chhatrapati Maharani and mother to Shahu and Bhavani, helped Sambhaji strengthen their empire. She shared his power and made major political decisions for the kingdom. The Mughals held her captive after capturing her husband. Shahu eventually rescued her when he inherited his father’s title. 

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