After AR Rahman’s comment; Chhaava writer defends film amid political debate and controversy

Writer Rishi Virmani responds to AR Rahman’s “divisive” remark on Chhaava, defending the film amid controversy. He says cinema cannot change deep-rooted beliefs as the historical drama continues to spark debate despite massive box office success.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 22 February 2026, 9:26 PM IST

Chhaava writer defends film amid political debate and controversy

New Delhi: Following composer AR Rahman’s remarks calling Chhaava a “divisive” film, writer Rishi Virmani has addressed the ongoing debate. He clarified that while films may spark discussions, they do not have the power to reshape long-standing beliefs within a short runtime.

Cinema and Public Opinion

Virmani emphasized that a feature film running for a few hours cannot transform societal mindset overnight. Speaking in an interview, he stated that audiences think independently and respond to content based on personal understanding. According to him, public reactions often vary and cannot be predicted by creators.

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He further added that the strong emotional response to Chhaava shows its impact on viewers, regardless of criticism. The discussion surrounding the film reflects how historical subjects often trigger wider conversations beyond entertainment.

A Tribute to Historical Figure Sambhaji

Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film narrates the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and is adapted from a popular Marathi novel. Virmani, who co-wrote the screenplay and dialogues, said the objective was to present a cinematic portrayal of an important historical personality.

The film features Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna in key roles and reportedly earned over ₹800 crore globally against a ₹130 crore budget. Its commercial performance positioned it among the top-grossing Indian films of the year.

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Controversy and Political Reaction

Despite box office success, the project attracted criticism and political discussion. Some leaders linked the film to social tensions, while others defended its creative expression. AR Rahman earlier noted in interviews that although the film highlights bravery, it also carries sensitive interpretations.

The debate around Chhaava continues as it remains both a commercial triumph and a topic of cultural discussion.