- Wednesday, February 26, 2025
By: Vibhuti Pathak
As Chhaava, the highly anticipated historical drama starring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, storms into theatres today, there’s more than just cinematic grandeur to discuss. The film, chronicling the life and valor of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has reignited conversations about his legacy, including an unexpected culinary connection. What if we told you that the beloved South Indian dish, sambhar, might just be named after this legendary Maratha ruler? While historians debate the authenticity of this claim, the folklore surrounding it is undeniably fascinating.
Sambhar, a staple in South Indian cuisine, is a thick, tangy lentil stew made with toor dal, vegetables, tamarind, and aromatic spices. It pairs perfectly with idli, dosa, vada, and rice, making it an indispensable part of the South Indian culinary experience. However, legend has it that the origins of sambhar are tied to none other than Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
The story traces back to the time when Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj visited Thanjavur, a region in Tamil Nadu with deep-rooted Maratha connections. The royal kitchen, responsible for preparing an elaborate feast for the Maratha king, found itself in a predicament—it had run out of kokum, a souring agent commonly used in Maharashtrian cuisine. Enter Shahuji Maharaj, the ruler of Thanjavur and son of Vyankoji, the stepbrother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Shahuji, known for his keen interest in literature, art, and even cooking, suggested an alternative—tamarind. This improvisation transformed the traditional lentil dish, giving birth to a new and uniquely flavored curry. Since the dish was first prepared for Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, it was reportedly called Sambhaji Aahar, meaning “food of Sambhaji.” Over time, the name evolved into sambhar, the beloved South Indian dish we relish today.
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Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava sheds light on the bravery, strategic mind, and sacrifices of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. While the film focuses on his contributions to the Maratha Empire, its release has sparked renewed interest in his cultural and historical impact, including intriguing stories like the sambhar connection. Whether fact or folklore, this culinary legend serves as a reminder of the profound influence of historical figures on everyday traditions.
As audiences flock to theatres to witness Kaushal’s portrayal of the fearless warrior-king, it’s interesting to ponder how history seeps into our lives in unexpected ways—including in the food we eat. Could it be that every time you savor a bowl of sambhar, you are unknowingly tasting a legacy linked to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj?
