Actor Rashmika Mandanna has unveiled her first look from the highly anticipated film Chhaava. On Tuesday, Jan 21 the film's official Instagram account, managed by Maddock Films, shared a joint post with Rashmika, revealing her character as Maharani Yesubai. In the posters, Rashmika is seen adorned in a saree and elaborate jewelry, with her head covered in one image as she smiles and offers a serious expression in another.
Fans Express Disappointment Over Rashmika Mandanna’s Chhaava Look
The caption reads, "Behind every great king, there stands a queen of unmatched strength. Introducing @rashmika_mandanna as Maharani Yesubai - the pride of Swarajya #ChhaavaTrailer Out Tomorrow! Releasing in cinemas on 14th February 2025." Fans were excited to finally see the trailer for the long-awaited film Chhaava, but some were not entirely pleased with Mandanna's portrayal of Maharani Yesubai.
Several fans commented that her look didn’t reflect the true essence of a Maharashtrian queen, with some stating that her appearance seemed more like Srivali (Mandanna's character in Pushpa) with added accessories, rather than an authentic portrayal of royal figure, Yesubai.
For those unaware, Maharani Yesubai, the second officially crowned queen of Swarajya, held an esteemed position, and some Redditors suggested that actors like Mrunal Thakur or Radhika Apte might have been a more fitting choice for the role. Some urged fans to reserve judgment until the trailer is released.
The period drama, which features Vicky Kaushal in the lead role, is scheduled to release in theaters on February 14, 2025. Kaushal portrays Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, while Rashmika's character, Maharani Yesubai, was the wife of the Maratha ruler and was often hailed as the Chatrapati Maharani of the Maratha Kingdom.
Chhaava Teaser Drops: Watch Vicky Kaushal Channel Maratha Valour
The teaser features dramatic scenes of Kaushal in warrior armour, engaged in fierce battles against a large Mughal army. His portrayal captures the intensity and valour of Sambhaji, emphasising the warrior’s bravery in the face of overwhelming odds.
The teaser also introduces Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb, adding a formidable antagonist to the film. The action-packed visuals showcase Kaushal’s character in both battle and regal moments, culminating in a scene where he sits on the throne in traditional Maratha attire. This period saga promises to bring a high-octane portrayal of historical events to the screen, highlighting the epic struggle and heroism of Chhatrapati Sambhaji. Chhaava boasts a strong cast including Rashmika Mandanna, Ashutosh Rana, Divya Dutta, Neil Bhoopalam, and Santosh Juvekar in key roles
Directed by Laxman Utekar, recognised for films such as Mimi (2021) and Luka Chuppi (2019), Chhaava represents a continued partnership between Utekar and Vicky Kaushal, who previously collaborated on the successful comedy-romance Zara Hatke Zara Bachke (2023).