The Indian Parliament will hold a special screening of the Vicky Kaushal-starrer Chaava on Thursday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other prominent BJP leaders expected to attend. The film, which portrays the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji, and his execution by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, has become the highest-grossing Indian film of 2025.
The film’s release has sparked significant debate, particularly in Maharashtra. Last week, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis referenced Chaava when discussing the factors that led to the Nagpur riots on Monday, which resulted in significant property damage. The riots coincided with a protest organized by VHP and Bajrang Dal in Nagpur, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Sambhaji Nagar, previously known as Aurangabad.
Fadnavis suggested that the film had stirred strong emotions and contributed to the growing calls for the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave. Right-wing groups, along with several political figures, have joined in demanding the end of the glorification of Aurangzeb. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP’s parent body, has cautioned against turning historical figures like Aurangzeb into icons, urging people to “choose their icons wisely.”
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