Sources reveal that the creation of Vicky Kaushal’s look as the valiant Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in the upcoming historical drama Chhaava was the result of meticulous research and dedicated effort over the course of a year. Director Laxman Utekar, committed to providing an authentic portrayal of the 17th century Maratha sovereign, spared no effort in ensuring that every detail in the film was historically accurate. Coupled with the expertise of costume designer Sheetal Sharma, the team embarked on an extensive investigation before the film began shooting in October 2023.
To achieve the desired level of authenticity, Utekar and Sharma traversed the breadth of Maharashtra, including visits to significant cities such as Aurangabad, Ratnagiri, Pune, Nashik, and Paithan. An insider disclosed that it was crucial for the team to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of the Maratha era to avoid any anachronisms. A source noted, “Some filmmakers favor using whites and pastels which don’t align with the historical context they are portraying. But Laxman aimed for authenticity in his visual storytelling. By exploring Maratha towns, the team discovered that Indian history is vibrant, characterized by a rich tapestry of colors. Their visits to numerous forts and museums in these cities provided deeper insights into the clothing and lifestyle of that period. Additionally, they engaged with historians who specialized in the 17th century.”
Expanding on the historical spectrum, Chhaava, a screen adaptation of Shivaji Sawant’s revered Marathi novel, features Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai, the wife of Sambhaji, with Divya Dutta portraying Soyarabai, his stepmother, and Akshaye Khanna taking on the role of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. For Mandanna’s wardrobe, the costume design crew visited Paithan and Narayanpeth to source genuine Paithani and Narayanpeth sarees. Aware of the unavailability of many fabrics from that period, they meticulously examined museum collections, photographing fabrics and textiles, which local weavers then replicated. The team procured and restored antique sarees, some with borders dating back 500 years.
. “Rashmika has donned several authentic Paithani sarees adorned with Chandrakala motifs,” another insider shared.
Kaushal’s look as Sambhaji heavily drew from sculptures and busts of the monarch. Historians collaborated in assembling images of the king’s representations from places like Sambhajinagar, Pune, and Nashik. The source stated, “The final image in Chhaava’s teaser, where Vicky is seated on the throne, was inspired by a bust from Pune. Accessories for the cast were sourced from Kolhapur, Sawantwadi, and Ratnagiri to maintain historical accuracy and imbue an old-world charm. Rashmika, for instance, wears a Lakshmi haar paired with a traditional nath, a look derived from museum artifacts.”
The replication of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s sword, Bhavani, was another story. Production designers Subrata Chakraborty and Amit Ray meticulously recreated it based on the original housed in a museum in London, underscoring their dedication to authenticity.
It becomes evident that historical dramas necessitate an unwavering commitment to detail. By affiliating with experts and immersing themselves in extensive research, Director Laxman Utekar and his team set out to render a faithful cinematic representation of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s era, honoring not just the aesthetics but the very spirit of the period.
The movie, besides its historical importance, aims to immerse audiences in a bygone era through its painstakingly crafted visuals. Vishal’s portrayal, enriched by an extraordinary wardrobe and authentic mannerisms, is anticipated to mesmerize viewers, bringing the Maratha king’s story to life on the silver screen.
As public enthusiasm builds and historical purists await validation of the film’s authenticity, the makers of Chhaava hope their efforts in painstakingly recreating the look and atmosphere of 17th century India will be lauded not just as a cinematic achievement, but as a tribute to one of the towering figures in Indian history.
