Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna’s controversial Lezim dance REMOVED from ‘Chhaava’ amid outcry over ‘historical accuracy’ |

Following strong objections, the makers of the film Chhaava have announced their decision to remove a dance sequence that was deemed ‘not historically accurate’.
The scene in question, which sparked widespread backlash, depicted Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Rashmika Mandanna as Queen Yesubai performing a Lezim dance. With prominent voices like Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, calling it “highly objectionable”, and fellow descendant Udayanraje Bhosale echoing the sentiment, the makers decided to scrap the dance scene.
In response to the controversy, director Laxman Utekar met Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Monday to discuss the issue. Following the meeting, he announced that the Lezim dance sequence would be deleted from the film.“We wanted his advice because he is well-read and knowledgeable about history, especially regarding Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj,” Utekar said.
“He gave us valuable suggestions. We had no intention to hurt anyone’s sentiments, but if the scene has caused offence, we will remove it. The Lezim dance is not a significant part of the film, so deleting it won’t affect the narrative.”
Maharashtra’s Minister of Marathi Language, Uday Samant, confirmed the filmmakers’ decision to remove the contentious scene. “If the scene has been deleted, there should be no further objections to the release of the film,” Samant said.
The minister had previously insisted that the film be reviewed by historians and scholars to ensure historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity. He had warned that the release could be blocked if offensive content remained.
In a tweet, Samant hailed the efforts to bring Sambhaji Maharaj’s story to the big screen but insisted that utmost care should be taken to ensure historical accuracy and respect for the Maratha king.
“It is a matter of joy that a Hindi film based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the protector of religion and protector of freedom, is being made. Such efforts are necessary to make the world understand the history of Chhatrapati. However, many have expressed their opinions that there are some objectionable scenes in this film. Our position is that this film should not be released without first showing it to experts and knowledgeable people. Anything that will harm the honour of the Maharaj will not be tolerated,” said Samant.
He further added, “Our position is that the producers and directors of the film should take immediate action in this regard and remove anything objectionable. A further decision will be taken after watching the film; otherwise, this film will not be allowed to be released.”