Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna’s film Chhaava has recently made headlines, but not just for its box office success. The historical drama has come under scrutiny following violent protests in Nagpur over the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. While the team behind the film has chosen to remain quiet, director Vivek Agnihotri has spoken out in its defense.
Agnihotri took to social media to voice his concerns, suggesting that films like Chhaava and The Kashmir Files are under attack from what he refers to as the “Urban Naxal ecosystem,” which he claims is waging a cultural campaign against their work. He believes these films are essential for awakening society and encourages people to stand against this perceived threat.
His remarks were a response to criticism that Chhaava and similar films contribute to dividing society. One user noted that such movies exacerbate social tensions, to which Agnihotri retorted by arguing that societal polarization existed before The Kashmir Files, sharing a controversial view on historical events in Kashmir.
The unrest in Nagpur reportedly began when protesters called for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. Reports indicate that during the protest, an effigy of the Mughal ruler was set ablaze, leading to rumors of a holy book being burned as well, which heightened tensions and resulted in riots. As a precaution, local authorities imposed a curfew in several areas to restore order.
Chhaava, the film in question, is inspired by a book of the same name and narrates the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Rane and his struggle against the Mughal Empire and Aurangzeb’s rule. With its bold themes, the film seeks to highlight the valor and fight for sovereignty.
In other news, Chhaava has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Hindi film to sell over 12 million tickets on BookMyShow.
