A scene from the trailer of the upcoming Bollywood movie, Chhava, which is inspired by the life of Maratha leader Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has sparked a dispute in Maharashtra. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (1657-1689) was the progeny of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630-1680), the originator of the Maratha empire.
In the film, Vicky Kaushal, who embodies the role of the king, is observed performing the Lezim (also written as lazium) folk dance with co-star Rashmika Mandanna, who portrays Sambhaji’s wife, Maharani Yesubai. This particular scene drew criticism from many after the trailer’s release last week, Indian Express reported.
Laxman Utekar, the director of the film, confirmed on Monday (27 January) that a particular scene would be removed following a meeting with Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief, Raj Thackeray.
What happened earlier
A descendant of the king, Chhatrapati Sambhajiraje, who is also a former Rajya Sabha MP, raised objections over the king’s portrayal in the song and challenged the artistic freedom exercised by the filmmakers.
On Saturday, Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant, with Industries and Marathi Language portfolios, said in a post on X, “It is a matter of joy that a Hindi film is being made based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the protector of religion and freedom… Our position is that this film should not be released without first showing it to experts and knowledgeable people.”
Director Laxman Utekar defended Maharaj Sambhaji playing the Lezim dance as a 20-year-old and said, “Lezim is a part of Maratha culture. It is just our traditional dance. But, if anyone is hurt by those dance moves or Lezim dance, we will remove them.”
Significantly, the film division of MNS, led by Raj Thackeray, has previously spearheaded numerous aggressive protests demanding more screen time for Marathi films and opposing the employment of Pakistani actors in Bollywood.
Thackeray himself has a strong relationship with several leading film stars and has played a key role in resolving previous disputes between Bollywood and the government.
Previously, movies portraying historical characters have faced criticism for their dramatic and flamboyant portrayal of respected figures from specific cultures.
For instance, 10 years ago, the descendants of the Maratha warrior Peshwa Bajirao called for the deletion of two songs from the film Bajirao Mastani, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Despite the controversy, the film was ultimately released with the songs included.
