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Vicky Kaushal's 'Chhaava' Dance Sequence Deleted From Film Amid Outrage
Director Laxman Utekar confirmed that ‘Chhaava’ will not feature a dance sequence with Sambhaji Maharaj and Maharani Yesubai.
The controversy surrounding the upcoming film Chhaava took a decisive turn after director Laxman Utekar announced the removal of a dance sequence featuring actor Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna.
The decision came following a meeting with MNS chief Raj Thackeray. In an official statement, Utekar said, “I have met Raj Thackeray. He is an avid reader and studious person. So, I have taken some suggestions and guidance from him. And I can say, his words are very helpful for me. And after meeting him, I have decided to delete those scenes where we have shown Sambhaji Maharaj was playing Lezim dance.”
Chhaava stars Vicky Kaushal as the Maratha warrior and is based on Shivaji Sawant's acclaimed book of the same name. The film delves into Sambhaji Maharaj's valour and leadership during his reign. Utekar explained that the sequence depicting Sambhaji performing Lezim — a traditional Maratha dance — was originally included to reflect his youthful energy. “Lezim is a part of Maratha culture. It is just our traditional dance. But, if anyone is hurt by those dance moves or the Lezim dance, we will remove them. The Lezim dance is not bigger than Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj," he said.
The controversy began when several Maharashtra ministers and historians raised objections, asserting that the portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj should remain historically accurate. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed concerns, stating, “Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj's history should be shown correctly, it is not right to distort history. Everyone has a lot of love and respect for Sambhaji Maharaj. This respect and honour should not be hurt. There should be creativity (in filmmaking) but we believe that there should be sensitivity along with it.”
Maharashtra minister Uday Samant also emphasised on the need for accuracy, writing on X, “It is a matter of joy that a Hindi film based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the protector of religion and protector of freedom, is being made. Such efforts are necessary to make the world understand the history of Chhatrapati. However, many have expressed their opinions that there are some objectionable scenes in this film. Our position is that this film should not be released without first showing it to experts and knowledgeable people. Anything that will harm the honour of the Maharaj will not be tolerated (sic).”
Similarly, Rajya Sabha MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, also weighed in, urging the filmmakers to involve experts before the film's release.
To address these concerns, Utekar has scheduled a special screening on January 29 for historians and experts to review the film. The director expressed his commitment to authenticity, noting, “We will take their guidance.”
Chhaava is set to release on February 14, 2025.