Indian historical movies are rare gems of Bollywood. These films tell us about people who did not think twice before defending their motherland with their lives.
Chhaava, released earlier this year, is based on the life of one of the most powerful rulers of the Maratha Empire: Sambhaji Maharaj. His bravery and steely resolve against the mighty Aurangzeb are like the will of David in taking down the mighty Goliath.
In the film, bloodthirsty swords clink on the screen as we relive the moments when the Marathas under Sambhaji (lovingly called Chhaava) defend their homeland from the Mughals. Evoking strong nationalist sentiments, the film has created many records and broken a few. If you loved watching Chhaava, here are 3 Bollywood movies that are just like Chhaava:
1. Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior | 2020
Director-Om Raut
Cast-Ajay Devgan, Kajol, and Saif Ali Khan
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The film is based on the life of Tanaji Mulasare, a military commander of the Maratha army under Shivaji’s rule. The story traces how Tanaji captured the Kondhana fortress from the clutches of the enemy. It acknowledges his dedication to the Maratha Empire and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, as he put all the family responsibilities on the back foot to get the fort back.
2. Kesari | 2019
Director-Anurag Singh
Cast-Akshay Kumar and Parineeti Chopra
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Kesari is built in the backdrop of the Sikh-Pashtun rivalry, which dates back thousands of years. When the 21 soldiers posted at the Saragarhi fort were surrounded by 10,000 Afghan soldiers led by Saidullah, their fate was sealed. Despite limited manpower, artillery and other resources, they held their post and inflicted maximum damage to the enemy camp under the guidance of their leader, Havildar Singh.
3. Manikarnika | 2019
Director-Krish Jagarlamudi and Kangana Ranaut
Cast-Kangana Ranaut, Jisshu Sengupta, and Mohhamed Zeeshan Ayub
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The film revolves around the life of Rani Laxmibai. She was a brave warrior who, after her husband’s death, protected Jhansi from the Britishers. The East India Company saw the untimely death of Maharaj Gangadhar Rao as an opportunity to annex Jhansi. However, they were met with tough resistance from Rani Laxmibai.
Although Indian cinema has many war films, we think these 3 Bollywood movies are similar to Chhaava. These stories are based on real events, there’s more war in the narrative and less family, romance or other stuff, and the protagonists are warriors committed to their cause.
Do you know of any film like Chhaava that we might have missed? Share in the comments, below.