Historical dramas have been a pivotal part of Indian cinema. Through the cinematic lens, filmmakers over generations have brought the untold tales, the historical gems, and the cultural marvels on the 70mm. As we speak, one of the historical dramas that is unfolding and roaring at the box office is ‘Chhaava.’
Directed by Laxman Utekar, ‘Chhaava’ has Vicky Kaushal in and as Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, son of Maratha empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Though the movie brings to light some of the most heroic and memorable moments of the late Maratha warrior, it has piqued the interest of everyone to know more about Chhatrapati Sambhaji
Maharaj.
Who was Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj?
Born in 1657 to Shivaji and Saibai, Sambhaji Maharaj was one of the bravest Maratha warriors. As shown in the movie ‘Chaava’ as well, Sambhaji Maharaj lost his mother at a very young age. There are dialogues in the movie where he says, he doesn’t remember how his ‘ayi saheb’ (mother) looks. Historical records state that he lost his mother at the age of 2. He was raised by his paternal grandmother Jijabai.
His father Chhatrapati Shivaji was crowned in 1674 at Raigad Fort. He only had one dream in his eyes Hindavi Swarajya (self-rule), and thus, he inspired generations with his patriotism, courage, and leadership. Sambhaji Maharaj was like a carbon copy of his father. Just like him, he was blessed with an abundance of courage, wisdom, and resilience.
In addition to this, Sambhaji was a scholar. He was fluent in multiple languages and had a soft spot for poetry. His strategic thinking and leadership qualities were simply exemplary. Besides being a great warrior and kind, Sambhaji was a true family man. Married to Jivubai, the daughter of Pilaji Shirke, who later took the name of Yesubai, Sambhaji Maharaj had two kids – a daughter and a son.
He was given the crown of the Maratha empire in 1681, after the demise of Shivaji. Thereafter, he fought tooth and nail for the dream his father had – ‘swarajya.’ He made enemies fall for his valor.
He fought several battles from 1682 to 1688 to safeguard the Maratha empire. However, in 1689, owing to internal politics and backstabbing by his own relatives, he was captured by the Aurangzeb in 1689. He was tortured mercilessly in his captivity, but he didn’t let his captors win. Till his last breath, he didn’t bow down and despite losing his life, he won against his foes.
