By: Vibhuti Pathak
Vicky Kaushal is all set to enthrall audiences once again with his upcoming period drama Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar. The film, based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the brave son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is expected to be a grand spectacle, bringing to life the rich Maratha history.
Starring alongside Rashmika Mandanna, Vicky Kaushal steps into the shoes of the legendary warrior, and the film promises breathtaking action sequences, intense drama, and stunning cinematography.
One of the highlights of Chhaava is its magnificent shooting locations. The makers have carefully chosen places that reflect the grandeur of the Maratha era, blending history with stunning natural landscapes. Here’s a look at the top locations where Chhaava has been shot:
1. Wistful Wai in Maharashtra
Wai, known as the “Dakshin Kashi” of Maharashtra, is famous for its ancient temples and ghats along the Krishna River. The town has been a favorite among Bollywood filmmakers for its old-world charm. Several historical dramas, including Bajirao Mastani, have been shot here. The picturesque surroundings and historical significance make it a perfect setting for Chhaava.
2. Mysterious Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra
A popular hill station in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is known for its breathtaking viewpoints, dense forests, and cool climate. It has long been a preferred destination for period films, offering a mix of lush greenery and rugged landscapes that can convincingly portray the Maratha era. The filmmakers have used Mahabaleshwar’s scenic beauty to add authenticity to Chhaava’s battle sequences.
3. Pristine Pune in Maharashtra
As the historical capital of the Maratha Empire, Pune plays a crucial role in the film’s narrative. The city is home to iconic forts and palaces such as Shaniwar Wada and Sinhagad Fort, making it a vital location for Chhaava. The production team has captured Pune’s heritage-rich locations to lend authenticity to the film’s storyline.
4. Joyful Jaipur in Rajasthan
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is famous for its magnificent palaces and forts. The filmmakers have utilized its architectural grandeur to depict royal settings in Chhaava. Places like Amber Fort and Nahargarh Fort have likely been used to recreate historical backdrops, enhancing the film’s visual appeal.
5. Unwavering Udaipur in Rajasthan
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, is synonymous with royal splendor. The city’s palatial structures and serene lakes add a regal touch to historical films. Chhaava has reportedly used locations like City Palace and Jag Mandir to capture the essence of Maratha royalty and political intrigue.
6. Kempt Karjat in Maharashtra
A hub for Bollywood’s historical and period dramas, Karjat is home to grand film studios and vast open landscapes. It provides controlled shooting environments, allowing filmmakers to recreate massive battle scenes and set designs. Given Chhaava’s scale, Karjat’s studio spaces and natural settings have been utilized extensively.
7. Jubilant Jodhpur in Rajasthan
The Blue City, with its massive Mehrangarh Fort and striking blue-painted houses, offers a grand setting for period dramas. Chhaava has likely used Jodhpur’s historical sites to depict Maratha strongholds and battlefields, adding depth to its storytelling.
8. Magnificent Mumbai in Maharashtra
As the heart of Bollywood, Mumbai serves as a key production base for Chhaava. While many grand outdoor scenes were shot across India, Mumbai’s studios have been instrumental in recreating certain historical sets and executing visual effects work to enhance the film’s authenticity.
What To Expect From ‘Chhaava’
Vicky Kaushal, known for his intense performances in Uri: The Surgical Strike and Sardar Udham, steps into a challenging historical role in Chhaava. Playing Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant warrior who carried forward Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy, Kaushal has undergone rigorous training in horseback riding, sword fighting, and Maratha warfare techniques. Rashmika Mandanna plays a significant role, making this a highly anticipated project.
With a mix of grand battle sequences, historical storytelling, and stunning cinematography, Chhaava is set to be one of the biggest period dramas of the year. The film’s breathtaking shooting locations only add to its authenticity, immersing audiences in the world of the Marathas like never before.