On Sunday, Uday Samant, a minister from Maharashtra, expressed his concerns regarding a particular scene in the film Chhaava, in which Vicky Kaushal, portraying Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, is depicted dancing. In reaction to these objections, the film's director, Laxman Utekar, announced that he had chosen to eliminate the scene following a discussion with Raj Thackeray.

Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna's dance sequence to be removed

In a media statement, the filmmaker remarked, "I have had the opportunity to meet Raj Thackeray. He is a passionate reader and a diligent individual. Consequently, I have sought his advice and insights, which I find to be quite beneficial. Following our meeting, I have resolved to remove the scenes depicting Sambhaji Maharaj performing the lezim dance," as reported by India Today.

He further affirmed that the dance sequence featuring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna will indeed be omitted from the film, stating, “The lezim dance is not of great significance. Sambhaji Maharaj represents a far greater legacy than that dance. Therefore, we will be eliminating those scenes from the movie.”

Additionally, he elaborated that the film's representation of Sambhaji Maharaj draws inspiration from Shivaji Sawant's book Chhava, which portrays Sambhaji as a youthful warrior of 20 years. However, out of respect for those who found the portrayal offensive, Utekar opted to remove the dance sequence, underscoring that the lezim dance does not hold more importance than the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.

The director also acknowledged the concerns raised by various ministers from Maharashtra, highlighting the necessity for historians to review the film prior to its release. Utekar noted that a special premiere has been scheduled for January 29, which will include historians and experts who will provide their insights.

What Uday Samant said

Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant has proposed that historians and scholars review the film to ensure it does not contain any objectionable content. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Samant remarked, “It is a source of joy that a Hindi film depicting the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, a defender of faith and freedom, is in production. Such initiatives are essential for fostering a better understanding of Chhatrapati's history. Nevertheless, there have been concerns raised regarding certain scenes in the film that some find objectionable. Our stance is clear: this film should not be released without prior evaluation by experts and knowledgeable individuals. We will not tolerate anything that could tarnish the honour of the Maharaj.”

About Chhaava

Chhaava is a historical action movie that chronicles the life of the Maratha king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. This film is inspired by the Marathi novel Chhava, authored by Shivaji Sawant, and features Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna in prominent roles. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under the banner of Maddock Films, the film is set to premiere in theaters on February 14.

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