Oh, Bollywood, you’ve done it again! Just when we all thought we’d get a historical drama without drama behind the scenes, Chhaava comes walking in (or should we say Lezim-ing in?) to stir up a drama.
For those who haven’t been keeping up with the Bollywood gossip train, Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, is based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, one of the most respected figures in Maratha history. But instead of basking in applause for bringing history to life, the film finds itself in the spotlight for, wait for it, -a dance number. Yes, a good ol’ Bollywood dance number has caused more controversy than any bad plot twist.
The scene in question shows Vicky Kaushal’s Sambhaji Maharaj vibing to a celebratory Lezim dance after winning a battle. Sounds harmless, right? Wrong. Entered some Maharashtra ministers, Maratha outfits, and even Raj Thackeray, who collectively raised an eyebrow (or two) at this creative choice. Their argument? A dance number in a historical film might dilute and lessen the authenticity of Sambhaji Maharaj’s legacy. And honestly, who’s arguing with Raj Thackeray? Certainly not Chhaava’s director, Laxman Utekar.
Utekar, to his credit, seems to have taken the controversy in full spirit. He explained that the vision behind the scene was to portray Sambhaji Maharaj as a spirited 20-year-old, someone who might actually celebrate a victory with a dance. But well, history lovers weren’t having it. The backlash was strong, with demands to remove the sequence altogether.
Now, as someone who’s watched Bollywood turn wars into musicals (Jodhaa Akbar’s sword fight/dance scene, anyone?), it’s easy to think, “What’s the big deal?” But when it comes to historical figures, particularly one as respected as Sambhaji Maharaj, there’s a fine line between creative liberty and creative liability.
In a move that says, “We hear you, and we’ll fix it,” Utekar announced that the scene would be removed from the film. That’s right, the Lezim dance is being sent to the editing room’s graveyard. RIP, Lezim scene, we hardly knew you.
The real question, though, is where do we draw the line? Bollywood thrives on its ability to dramatize everything, from love stories to life stories. But when it comes to history, especially one steeped in cultural pride, is it time for filmmakers to tread more carefully? Or should audiences learn to cut them a little slack?
What’s clear is that Chhaava is walking a tightrope between staying true to history and keeping audiences entertained. While the dance sequence’s deletion may appease critics, it also highlights the increasing scrutiny filmmakers face when tackling sensitive subjects.
That said, we can’t ignore the buzz this controversy has created. Let’s be honest, how many of us were really aware of the film before this? Controversy sells, my friends. And with Vicky Kaushal in the lead, fans are likely to forgive the drama for the sake of a good cinematic experience.
So, here’s to Chhaava, now with 100% less Lezim but (hopefully) 100% more authenticity. Whether it will strike the perfect balance between history and Bollywood’s flair for the dramatic remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure, this is one film that’s already made history before even hitting the screens.
Should filmmakers take liberties with historical dramas, or should they stick to the facts like glue? And while you’re at it, maybe cue up a Lezim song to dance out your feelings. Just not in a historical context, okay?
