Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava has emerged as one of the year’s biggest blockbusters, amassing an impressive Rs 800 crore at the global box office. This success is particularly notable during a time when the Hindi film industry is grappling with a slump in performance. While Kaushal’s portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj has received widespread acclaim, director Mahesh Manjrekar has shifted the focus from the actor’s star power to the vital role of the audience, particularly in Maharashtra, for the film’s phenomenal success.
In a recent interview with Mirchi Marathi, Manjrekar shared his candid thoughts about the film’s performance and the driving forces behind its box office triumph. He acknowledged Kaushal’s acting talent but quickly pointed out that the actor’s previous films didn’t enjoy the same success. “Vicky Kaushal is undoubtedly a skilled actor, and Chhaava has performed exceptionally well, crossing ₹800 crore. But Vicky can’t claim that it was his fame alone that attracted audiences. If that were the case, people would have flocked to see his earlier films, but they didn’t,” Manjrekar remarked.
The director emphasized that the film’s appeal went beyond the actor and was rooted in the powerful character of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, a revered figure in Maharashtra’s history. “It wasn’t Vicky Kaushal that people came to watch—it was the character of Sambhaji Maharaj. The cultural and historical significance of the character resonated deeply with the audience, particularly in Maharashtra,” he explained.
Mahesh also expressed gratitude towards the audience in Maharashtra, attributing the lion’s share of Chhaava’s success to them. “It’s important to remember that it is Maharashtra that has been the savior of the Hindi film industry. Chhaava is doing well, and at least 80 percent of that success can be credited to Maharashtra. In fact, 90 percent of the credit should go to Pune, with the rest spread across other parts of the state. It’s the support from this region that is crucial to the industry’s revival,” Manjrekar asserted.
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava also stars Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale, the wife of Sambhaji Maharaj. The film’s supporting cast includes actors such as Akshaye Khanna, Ashutosh Rana, and Divya Dutta. Produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, Chhaava has been lauded for its immersive storytelling, direction, and strong performances, particularly in its portrayal of the Maratha empire’s historical grandeur.
While Vicky Kaushal’s performance is rightfully celebrated, Mahesh Manjrekar’s comments shift the spotlight on the power of storytelling, cultural ties, and the critical role of regional audiences in ensuring the success of a film.
