Vicky Kaushal’s last 5 films didn't work, audience came for character, not actor: Mahesh Manjrekar on Chhaava

In a recent interview with Mirchi Marathi, acclaimed filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar opened up about the massive success of the historical drama Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. He shared insightful thoughts on the film's box office performance and Vicky Kaushal’s role in its success, noting how the audience's connection to the character outweighed the actor's star power.

Manjrekar, who has been an integral part of the Marathi and Hindi film industry, emphasized that Vicky Kaushal’s performance alone did not bring audiences to the theaters. He pointed out that if viewers had come just for Kaushal, his previous films would have performed better at the box office. “The audience came to see the character of Sambhaji Maharaj, not the actor,” he said. His remarks highlighted how the film's success is not merely tied to its lead actor, but rather to the compelling historical character portrayed and the story it told.

The filmmaker further credited the state of Maharashtra for playing a pivotal role in Chhaava's success. He stated that nearly 80% of the film's box office success can be attributed to Maharashtra, with Pune alone contributing 90% of that number. According to him, the state's audiences are the backbone of the Hindi film industry, underscoring Maharashtra's importance in shaping the fortunes of many films.

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava has already made an impressive mark at the box office, crossing Rs 600 crore in India and reaching Rs 807.6 crore worldwide. The film, set in the turbulent period of Maratha and Mughal wars, narrates the story of the brave Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of the fearless leader, who was executed by Mughal forces in 1689, has been widely praised for its intensity and depth.

Along with Vicky Kaushal, Chhaava features an ensemble cast including Rashmika Mandanna, who plays Yesubai Bhonsale, Sambhaji Maharaj's wife. Akshaye Khanna, Ashutosh Rana, and Divya Dutta also deliver strong performances, adding layers to the film's gripping narrative.