In a significant cultural endorsement, the Goa government has declared the Hindi film “Chhaava,” which portrays the life of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, tax-free in the state. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant made this announcement on February 19, 2025, coinciding with the 395th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire and father of Sambhaji Maharaj.
“Chhaava,” directed by Laxman Utekar, features Vicky Kaushal in the titular role, with Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in pivotal roles. The film, which hit theaters on February 14, 2025, is an adaptation of Shivaji Sawant’s acclaimed Marathi novel “Chhava.” It delves into the valor and sacrifices of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, highlighting his battles against the Mughals and the Portuguese to protect his realm and uphold his principles.
Chief Minister Sawant took to social media platform X to share the news, stating, “It gives pleasure to me to announce that movie ‘Chhaava’ based on the life & sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, will be Tax Free in Goa.” He further emphasized that the film brings to the screen the glorious history of Sambhaji Maharaj, whose courage and dedication to “Dev, Desh, and Dharma” serve as an inspiration to all.
This move by the Goa government aims to encourage more residents to watch the film and gain insights into the rich history and legacy of the Maratha empire. By making the film tax-free, ticket prices are expected to be more affordable, thereby increasing accessibility for a broader audience.
Following Goa’s lead, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also declared “Chhaava” tax-free in his state on the same day. These concurrent announcements underscore the film’s cultural significance and the widespread admiration for Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s contributions to Indian history. hindustantimes.com
“Chhaava” has garnered positive reviews from both audiences and critics. The Times of India awarded the film a 3.5-star rating, praising its grand portrayal and Vicky Kaushal’s compelling performance. The review noted, “Director Laxman Utekar builds his historical on a massive canvas, giving the film the larger than life appeal it deserves.” However, it also pointed out that while the film starts with promise, the first half could benefit from a more engaging narrative beyond the action sequences and songs.
The film’s music, composed by A.R. Rahman, has been highlighted as a significant contributor to its narrative drive. The song “Aaya Re Toofan,” with its classic Maharashtrian Nashik Dhol Tasha, stands out as a powerful war cry, though some tracks have been critiqued for not aligning seamlessly with the film’s historical setting. timesofindia.indiatimes.com
At the box office, “Chhaava” is performing exceptionally well. It is on track to become the first Bollywood film of 2025 to cross the ₹200-crore mark, surpassing previous records held by films like “Sky Force,” which amassed ₹112 crore. This commercial success reflects the audience’s interest in historical dramas and stories that resonate with India’s rich cultural heritage. hindustantimes.com
The collaborative efforts of the cast and crew have been pivotal in bringing this historical narrative to life. Director Laxman Utekar, known for his attention to detail, has meticulously recreated the era, while producer Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films has ensured that the film maintains high production values. The ensemble cast, including Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna, delivers commendable performances that complement Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj.
In summary, the decision by the Goa government to make “Chhaava” tax-free is a testament to the film’s cultural and historical significance. It not only honors the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj but also promotes the dissemination of important historical narratives to the public. As the film continues to draw audiences nationwide, it stands as a remarkable example of cinema’s power to educate and inspire.
