The highly anticipated historical drama Chhava, starring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, has made a huge impact at the box office in its opening weekend. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film hit theaters on Friday and quickly gained momentum, bringing in impressive earnings over the first three days of its release.
By 3:00 PM on Sunday (Day 3), Chhava had earned ₹18.7 crore on its third day, bringing its total net collection in India to an impressive ₹86.7 crore.
The film made an outstanding start on Day 1, earning ₹31 crore, and then saw a significant jump on Day 2, where it grossed ₹37 crore, marking a 19.35% increase.
Set against the backdrop of Maratha history, Chhava tells the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film has received praise for its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and an engaging storyline based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant.
Audiences have been flocking to theaters, especially on Day 3, when morning show occupancy increased by over 50%. Reports suggest a 49.82% rise in footfall during the early shows on Sunday, showing the growing word-of-mouth excitement around the film.
This solid box office performance sets a high benchmark for Bollywood releases in 2025. Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj has struck a chord with viewers, and the film shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. As it continues its theatrical run, Chhava is on track to shatter more records, cementing its place as a massive success.
Released on February 14, 2025, “Chhava” has swiftly become a monumental success in Indian cinema. Directed by Laxman Utekar and featuring stellar performances by Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale, the film has garnered widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative and exceptional production quality.
Box Office Milestones
In its opening weekend, “Chhava” achieved remarkable box office figures:
| Day | Collection (in crore INR) |
|---|---|
| Day 1 (Friday) | 31 |
| Day 2 (Saturday) | 37 |
| Day 3 (Sunday, as of 3:00 PM) | 18.7 |
By the end of Day 3, the film’s net India collection had reached approximately ₹86.7 crore, underscoring its widespread appeal and the audience’s appreciation for historical narratives.
Critical Reception
Critics have lauded “Chhava” for its authentic portrayal of Maratha history, with particular praise for the performances of the lead actors. Vicky Kaushal’s depiction of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj has been highlighted as a career-defining role, capturing the valor and complexity of the historical figure. Rashmika Mandanna’s portrayal of Yesubai Bhonsale adds depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.
Audience Response
The film has sparked discussions among audiences, particularly regarding its historical accuracy and certain creative liberties taken in the portrayal of events. Some viewers have expressed concerns over the omission of specific terms and the depiction of certain scenes, reflecting the passionate engagement of the audience with the film’s content.
Production Insights
“Chhava” is an adaptation of the Marathi novel “Chhava” by Shivaji Sawant, bringing to life the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film’s production involved meticulous attention to detail, with extensive research to authentically depict the era. The collaboration between director Laxman Utekar and composer A.R. Rahman has resulted in a soundtrack that complements the film’s epic scale.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its commercial success, “Chhava” has reignited interest in Maratha history and culture, prompting discussions about the representation of historical figures in Indian cinema. The film’s portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj has led to increased engagement with historical texts and a renewed appreciation for the Maratha legacy.
Conclusion
“Chhava” stands as a testament to the potential of Indian cinema to blend historical narratives with compelling storytelling. Its success at the box office and the critical acclaim it has received highlight the audience’s appetite for films that offer both entertainment and cultural enrichment. As the film continues its theatrical run, it is poised to leave a lasting impact on the Indian film industry and its audience.