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Chhaava stars Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna in leading roles. It has recently been embroiled in controversies about portrayal of Maratha leaders.
Vicky Kaushal’s film Chhaava is facing controversy over its depiction of the Shirke family’s ancestors as traitors. Deepak Raje Shirke has accused the filmmakers of distorting historical facts and demanded immediate corrections. The Shirke family has warned of statewide protests and a ₹100 crore lawsuit if their concerns are not addressed.
No blockbuster film is made without stirring controversy, and Vicky Kaushal’s upcoming movie Chhaava is no exception. The historical drama has sparked criticism after Deepak Raje Shirke, a descendant of the renowned Shirke family, accused the filmmakers of distorting history. On Monday, Shirke alleged that the film falsely depicts his ancestors, Maratha commanders Ganoji and Kanhoji Shirke, as traitors responsible for the capture of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
Our reputation has suffered immensely, and all of India now sees us as gaddar (traitors),” said Deepak, expressing the Shirke family’s outrage. “If the filmmakers continue to ignore our concerns, we will take to the streets in protest. Our family numbers in the lakhs across Maharashtra.”
Despite their objections, Deepak acknowledged that Chhava was a well-made film and emphasized the importance of bringing Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s story to audiences. However, he insisted that the controversial aspects must be removed.
The Shirke family has also threatened legal action, warning of a ₹100 crore lawsuit against the film’s producers.
Chhaava” Hit with ₹100 Crore Defamation Suit by Shirke Family, Director Laxman Utekar Issues Apology
On February 20, the Shirke family formally issued a legal notice to director Laxman Utekar, urging modifications to the film’s storyline to prevent any historical misrepresentation.
The historical drama Chhaava has sparked controversy as the descendants of Maratha warriors Ganoji and Kanhoji Shirke have raised objections to their portrayal in the film. The Shirke family claims that the movie depicts their ancestors in a negative light and has warned of possible legal action against the filmmakers.
They have announced their intention to file a ₹100 crore defamation lawsuit against the filmmakers. In response, director Laxman Utekar has apologized and clarified his stance on the portrayal of historical figures in the film.
'छावा' फ़िल्म पर छिड़ा विवाद, लगा 'इतिहास गलत दिखाने' का आरोप, 100 करोड़ की मानहानि केस कि बात, डायरेक्ट ने मांगी माफ़ी…
— Ashraf Hussain (@AshrafFem) February 26, 2025
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On February 20, they formally issued a notice to director Laxman Utekar, demanding clarification on the film’s portrayal of their ancestors and urging him to make necessary corrections.
According to reports, Utekar later reached out personally to Bhushan Shirke, a family descendant, to apologize for any unintended distress. He also clarified that the film does not explicitly mention the last names or village names of Ganoji and Kanhoji.
The Shirke family has also threatened to file a ₹100 crore lawsuit against the film’s producers. On February 20, they officially sent a notice to Laxman Utekar, demanding clarification regarding the portrayal of their ancestors and urging him to make the necessary corrections.
According to reports, Utekar later personally reached out to Bhushan Shirke, a descendant, to apologize for any unintentional distress caused to the family. He also clarified that the film does not explicitly reference the last names or village names of Ganoji and Kanhoji.
We have only mentioned the names Ganoji and Kanhoji in Chhaava without including their surname or revealing their native village. Our intention was never to hurt the sentiments of the Shirke family. I sincerely apologize if Chhaava has caused any discomfort,” Utekar reportedly told Shirke.
Meanwhile, the Shirke family has warned that if their concerns are not addressed and their demands go unfulfilled, they will intensify their efforts with statewide protests.
Chhaava’ Makes Box Office History
According to reports from box-office tracking portal Sacnilk.com, the magnum opus has achieved a massive global collection of ₹465 crore, setting new benchmarks in the industry.
Chhaava’ boasts a stellar ensemble cast, headlined by Vicky Kaushal. Joining him are Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Neil Bhoopalam, and Ashutosh Rana, among others. The film brings to life the story of Sambhaji, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire.
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