Mahesh Manjrekar Credits Maharashtra and History, Not Stardom, for ‘Chhaava’s Blockbuster Triumph

While Vicky Kaushal shines as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Manjrekar insists the true hero behind the film’s Rs 550 crore success is Maharashtra’s pride and legacy.

Vicky Kaushal’s historical-action drama Chhaava stormed the box office upon its release in February 2025, cementing its place as an All-Time Blockbuster. With a lifetime collection surpassing Rs 550 crore, the film joined the ranks of Bollywood’s biggest hits and further solidified Vicky’s status as one of the industry’s most bankable stars. However, according to actor-filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar, the real credit for the film’s phenomenal success lies elsewhere.

In a candid conversation with Mirchi Marathi, Manjrekar praised Vicky Kaushal’s performance but made it clear that the audience’s draw was not the actor alone. “Vicky is undoubtedly a fine actor,” Manjrekar said, “but if the crowds were only coming for him, his last five films would have seen similar results. The audience came to witness Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s story.” By attributing the success to the legendary Maratha king, Manjrekar emphasized the film’s deeper emotional connection with the audience.

He further stated that Maharashtra played a pivotal role in Chhaava’s blockbuster run. “It is my Maharashtra that has saved the Hindi film industry,” Manjrekar declared, stressing that nearly 80 to 90 percent of the film’s success stemmed from the pride and support of people in Maharashtra, especially Pune. He passionately added, “Maharashtra has the power to revive the industry.”

Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar, hit theatres on February 14, 2025. Vicky Kaushal starred as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, while Rashmika Mandanna portrayed his wife, Yesubai Bhonsale. Akshaye Khanna took on the role of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Following its stellar theatrical run, the film premiered on Netflix on April 11, 2025, further expanding its audience globally.