Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava continues to earn praise for its gripping storyline and stellar performances. However, ahead of its release, the historical drama faced hurdles as several scenes were removed from the final cut. Recently, a video featuring Divya Dutta and Ashutosh Rana in an intense conversation surfaced online, revealing a deleted sequence that did not make it to Indian screens.
Reacting to the scene’s sudden appearance online, Divya Dutta shared her thoughts in an interview with Bollywood Bubble. “I’m actually surprised to see the scene online. And yeah, it was one of my very favourite scenes. But yeah, it happens. Not in my hands though. But the thing is, the film is getting lots of love, and I’m getting lots of love,” she said.
While she expressed her appreciation for the overwhelming response to the film, Dutta admitted she would have been happier if the scene had remained. “To be honest, I would have been very happy had the scene been there. But yeah, that’s all. No complaints,” she added.
The scene takes place after Sambhaji Maharaj (Vicky Kaushal) meets Aurangzeb’s son and uncovers a conspiracy against him. Ashutosh Rana’s character Hambir Rao engages in a powerful conversation with Divya Dutta’s Soyrabai, reminding her of the sacrifices that established Swarajya and questioning her motives. The dialogue-heavy exchange was reportedly one of the most intriguing and impactful moments in the film.
Despite the cuts, Chhaava has emerged as a box office juggernaut, grossing Rs 219.75 crore since its release on February 14. With Maharashtra and Goa already making the film tax-free, there is increasing demand for similar measures in other states.
Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film features an ensemble cast, including Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai, Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb, Ashutosh Rana as Hambir Rao, Divya Dutta as Soyrabai, Diana Penty as Zeenat, Viineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash and Vijay Vikram. The film’s music, composed by AR Rahman, has also been widely appreciated.