A tribute to the cultures of Maharashtra is what actor Vicky Kaushal, known for films such as Zakhana-e-Azraq and Sardar Udham Singh, seems to be working out with his current period drama under the banner Chhaava. Recently, the movie stirred up controversy following a dance number called Lezim, featuring the actor playing the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Following its removal from the film, here’s how he reacted
In a media interaction in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Kaushal said that the team of the film always entered the project with respect and dignity. “Not a single day passed when we did not start work without the Shivgarjana (slogans paying tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj). The lezim sequence lasted only for 20-30 seconds and it was also added to reflect our culture to the world, he said while speaking to Hindustan Times.
Kaushal further elaborated that Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was known as the “king of the people” and they were of the belief that he would have participated had he been requested to play Lezim. Still, the sentiments of his followers were respected by the makers by removing the scene. “As it wasn’t important to the story, we took it out,” he added.
Kaushal also spoke about his preparation for the film, which is adapted from Shivaji Sawant’s Marathi novel Chhaava. Having played historic characters like Sardar Udham and Sam Manekshaw, he pointed out that it took almost a year to prepare the film’s costumes and jewelry, all of which were sourced locally.
After the controversy, director Laxman Utekar met MNS chief Raj Thackeray and decided to delete the scene. Chhaava, presented by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, stars Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, and Divya Dutta. The film will release on February 14, 2025.
