PM Modi Praises Vicky Kaushal's 'Chhaava': A Nationwide Sensation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in New Delhi on February 21. At the function, he praised the Vicky Kaushal-starrer Chhaava.

Pointing to the extensive coverage the film has been getting, PM Modi said, "In dino to Chhaava ki dhoom machi hui hai (Chhaava is making waves across the country these days)."

While speaking before the Marathi literary convention, he appreciated Maharashtra and Mumbai's key role in not only Marathi but also Hindi cinema. Discussing the film's popularity, he said, "These days, Chhaava is creating ripples throughout the country. The boldness of Sambhaji Maharaj has been introduced through this medium by Shivaji Sawant's Marathi novel.

Meanwhile, Vicky Kaushal posted an emotional moment on Instagram with his housemaid, Asha Tai. Following the screening of Chhaava, she performed the age-old 'Nazar Utarna' ritual for him, a gesture that preserves one from the ill effects of undue admiration.

On the post, Asha Tai can be seen asking Vicky to sit down while she performs the ritual. The actor happily posted that this had always been her unique way of showing love.

"Asha Tai has watched me grow. taller and in life. Yesterday, she watched #Chhaava and insisted, 'You should stand up, your eyes need to be raised.' This has always been her method of expressing love and shielding me from too much of it. So blessed to have her in my life!" he posted.

Laxman Utekar directs Chhaava, where Vicky Kaushal portrays Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The cast ensemble includes Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale, Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb, Diana Penty as Zinat-un-Nissa Begum, Ashutosh Rana as Hambirrao Mohite, and Divya Dutta as Soyarabai.

Released on February 14 in theaters, the historical drama has struck a chord with the public, gaining immense acclaim. The movie has also left an impression at the box office, crossing ₹310.5 crores in global collections.