Vicky Kaushal’s historical action film “Chhaava”, based on the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, has become the center of a heated political and communal dispute due to its depiction of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis linked the film to escalating tensions in Nagpur, stating that its portrayal of Aurangzeb had fueled public anger, leading to violent clashes over the late emperor’s tomb.
“The film Chhaava has stirred resentment against Aurangzeb, but maintaining peace in Maharashtra remains our top priority,” Fadnavis said, according to the Hindustan Times.
He further alleged that the violence on Monday, triggered by rumors of a religious book being burned by a right-wing group, was “pre-planned” and part of a larger conspiracy.
In response to the unrest, authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in parts of Nagpur after protests turned violent, injuring over a dozen police officers. According to law enforcement officials, at least 15 officers were hurt in the clashes, with one sustaining serious injuries. Several vehicles were also vandalized in the chaos.
Fadnavis, in a video message, strongly condemned the violence and urged authorities to take stringent action. “I have instructed the police commissioner to implement all necessary measures to restore law and order,” he siad.
Meanwhile, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), a right-wing Hindu group, staged demonstrations, burning an effigy of Aurangzeb and his tomb while chanting slogans demanding its removal from Aurangabad. The incident has further intensified communal tensions, prompting increased security measures across the region.
