Who was Sambhaji Maharaj? Meet the warrior Vicky Kaushal plays
What's the story
Vicky Kaushal is set to bring history to life with Chhaava, set to release this Friday.
Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film delves into the journey of Sambhaji Maharaj, the fearless son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
With an incredible record of fighting 140 wars in just nine years—without a single defeat—his story is one of resilience and heroism.
Here's a closer look at the warrior Kaushal embodies on screen.
Reign
Sambhaji Maharaj's reign and defection to the Mughals
Known as Shambhuraje, Sambhaji became the Maratha Empire's second Chhatrapati, leading with unmatched valor from 1681 to 1689.
He defected to the Mughal Empire, serving under Diler Khan, before taking the Maratha throne after Shivaji's death.
His rule was characterized by constant wars with the Mughals, Siddi of Janjira, Wadiyars of Mysore, and the Portuguese Empire.
Despite the odds, Sambhaji disrupted Mughal supply lines and often raided their territories.
Battle
Sambhaji's most significant military campaign
One of Sambhaji's most significant military campaigns was his attack on Burhanpur, a key Mughal city in present-day Madhya Pradesh and a major trading hub. His objective was to halt Aurangzeb's expansion into the Deccan.
Between 1682 and 1688, multiple battles ensued between the Marathas and the Mughals. While Aurangzeb (played by Akshaye Khanna in the film) sought control over Maratha-held forts, his forces failed to achieve their goal.
Downfall
His downfall and 'brutal' execution
Two years into his reign, Sambhaji ordered the execution of 24 influential individuals after uncovering a conspiracy to assassinate him.
By 1685, the Mughal forces had begun reclaiming Maratha territories, pushing Sambhaji back and capturing several of his strongholds. In 1688, he was eventually taken prisoner through deception.
Aurangzeb subjected him to relentless torture for days before executing him in a manner described as "the most horrible" on March 11, 1689.
Aftermath
Post-Sambhaji era and 'Chhaava' film production
Despite his tragic end, Sambhaji Maharaj earned a revered place in history for his unwavering courage.
He chose death over surrender, refusing to compromise his commitment to Deva, Desh, and Dharma. To this day, the people of Maharashtra honor his sacrifice and bravery, remembering him as a true warrior who defied Aurangzeb till his last breath.
Chhaava, produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, is based on Shivaji Sawant's eponymous Marathi novel.