In a thrilling development for Indian cinema, Vicky Kaushal is set to star as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in the upcoming historical drama Chaava. The film, produced by Maddock Films, will bring to life the tale of the brave Maratha warrior who fought valiantly to preserve his father’s legacy. Sambhaji, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was a fearless leader whose courage even made the mighty Mughal emperor Aurangzeb marvel. The film is scheduled for release on December 6 and is highly anticipated by history enthusiasts and cinema lovers alike.
The Legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a name synonymous with valor and strategic brilliance. However, his son, Sambhaji Maharaj, often remains underappreciated despite his own remarkable contributions. Known as ‘Shiva ka Chhava’ (Shiva’s cub), Sambhaji was just as formidable as his father. He was born into an era of conflict and learned the art of warfare and statecraft from a young age. After the death of his mother, Sai Bai, when he was only two years old, Sambhaji was raised by his grandmother, Rajmata Jija Bai, and his father, Shivaji Maharaj, who trained him in guerrilla warfare and political strategy.
When Shivaji Maharaj passed away, Sambhaji was crowned as the Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire. His reign was marked by relentless battles against multiple enemies, including the powerful Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb, the Portuguese, and the British. Despite facing numerous adversaries, Sambhaji Maharaj remained undeterred, leading his troops with unmatched bravery.
A Leader Against All Odds
After Shivaji’s death, Sambhaji Maharaj inherited not just his father’s throne but also his enemies. He faced formidable foes like Siddi Johar of Janjira, the Portuguese in Goa, the British in Bombay, and Aurangzeb, who invaded the Deccan with a massive army of four lakhs and a treasure of fourteen crores. However, the most dangerous enemy Sambhaji faced was not external but internal—a betrayal from within his own ranks.
Sambhaji Maharaj’s resilience was legendary. By the age of 32, he had fought and won around 120 battles, a record that even Aurangzeb could not rival. His military prowess and indomitable spirit made him a revered leader, but his downfall came not from the battlefield but from treachery within his inner circle.
The Betrayal and Capture of Sambhaji Maharaj
Aurangzeb, who was in his seventies at the time, struggled to subdue Sambhaji Maharaj’s forces despite his vast resources. Realizing that military might alone would not suffice, Aurangzeb resorted to diplomatic cunning. Tragically, Sambhaji’s own brother-in-laws, Ganoji and Kanoji, betrayed him by providing intelligence to Aurangzeb. This betrayal, combined with the ambitions of his stepmother Soyarabai, who wanted her own son to ascend to the throne, weakened Sambhaji’s position.
Aurangzeb’s forces eventually captured Sambhaji Maharaj through deceit. He was taken to Vadhu Budruk, where he was imprisoned. Aurangzeb, who had long desired this moment, came to see the captured Maratha warrior in person. Despite his captivity, Sambhaji Maharaj’s spirit remained unbroken.
The Martyrdom of Sambhaji Maharaj
Aurangzeb sought to humiliate Sambhaji Maharaj by forcing him to beg for mercy and convert to Islam, but Sambhaji refused to bow. He endured days of brutal torture without ever pleading for his life. His tongue was cut out, his nails were pulled, his eyes were gouged with hot iron rods, and his limbs were severed. Despite the unimaginable pain, Sambhaji Maharaj maintained his dignity, refusing to surrender his beliefs or his pride.
When news of Sambhaji Maharaj’s death reached Aurangzeb, the emperor, who had always been known for his ruthlessness, was moved to lament, “O Allah, why did you not give birth to a son like Sambhaji in our family?” These words stand as a testament to the extraordinary character and valor of Sambhaji Maharaj, whose legacy continues to inspire millions.
A Cinematic Tribute
Chaava promises to be a cinematic tribute to this great Maratha warrior, with Vicky Kaushal stepping into the role of Sambhaji Maharaj. The film aims to bring the story of this unsung hero to the forefront, reminding audiences of the courage, loyalty, and indomitable spirit that defined his life. As the release date approaches, anticipation is building for what is expected to be a powerful portrayal of one of India’s greatest warriors.
