Meaning of 'Chhava' & Why Sambhaji was Called by This Name?

Meaning of 'Chhava' & Why Sambhaji was Called by This Name?

The Marathi word 'Chhava' means "Lion Cub."

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj affectionately gave this title to his son, Sambhaji Maharaj.

From a young age, Sambhaji displayed immense bravery and courage, leading Shivaji to call him "Chhava" (Lion Cub).

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Martyrdom of Sambhaji Maharaj (1689)

Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb fought against the Marathas for 27 years. During this period, Sambhaji fiercely resisted the Mughal forces.

In 1689, Aurangzeb’s army captured Sambhaji along with his close friend Kavi Kalash.

Aurangzeb tortured them brutally and demanded that they convert to Islam.

Sambhaji refused and chose to sacrifice his life for the Hindu Dharma.

As a result, Aurangzeb ordered his execution in the most horrific manner, cutting him into pieces.

To instill fear among the Marathas, Aurangzeb had Sambhaji’s severed head displayed in his capital.

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What Happened to the Maratha Empire After Sambhaji’s Death?

Despite the loss of Sambhaji Maharaj, the Marathas did not surrender.

His younger brother, Rajaram Maharaj, took charge in 1689.

To evade the Mughals, Rajaram shifted the Maratha administration to Gingee Fort (Tamil Nadu).

After Rajaram’s death in 1700, his wife Tarabai led the Maratha resistance.

Aurangzeb died in 1707, and the Marathas regained strength.

By 1713, Shahu Maharaj restored the Maratha Empire.

The Marathas expanded their power across North India until the Battle of Panipat in 1757.

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'Chhava' Movie & Its Historical Accuracy

Recently, many films and web series have been made on Sambhaji Maharaj. Notably, the 'Chhatrapati Sambhaji' movie, titled 'Chhava,' is released 

Directed by Nitin Desai (famous for 'Bajirao Mastani').

Riteish Deshmukh will play Sambhaji Maharaj.

The film will portray Sambhaji’s sacrifices and the Maratha resistance against the Mughals.

Key Aspects & Historical Accuracy in the Film

1. Sambhaji’s Childhood – Expected to be depicted accurately.

2. Battles Against the Mughals – Will be shown based on historical evidence.

3. Martyrdom for Hindu Dharma – The brutal execution of Sambhaji is expected to be shown realistically.

4. Aurangzeb’s Respect for Sambhaji – It should highlight that even Aurangzeb considered Sambhaji a formidable warrior.

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Conclusion

The death of Sambhaji Maharaj was a temporary setback for the Maratha Empire, but his bravery inspired continued resistance.

His sacrifice motivated the Marathas to keep fighting until Aurangzeb’s death.

The upcoming movie 'Chhava' is a great opportunity to introduce Sambhaji’s legacy to the younger generation.

However, it is crucial to ensure that history is depicted with complete accuracy.