The Untold Story of Chhaava’s Director: Laxman Utekar’s Grit & Glory

The cinematic world is abuzz with the success of Chhaava, a film that has captivated audiences nationwide. While Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj has garnered widespread acclaim, the mastermind behind this magnum opus is none other than director Laxman Utekar. His journey from selling vada pav on the streets of Mumbai to helming one of Bollywood’s biggest historical films is nothing short of inspiring.Laxman Utekar’s rise in the industry was not overnight. Before becoming a director, he worked as a peon in an office, cleaning washrooms and performing menial tasks. However, his passion for cinema was unshakable. He started working in the film industry as a spot boy, assisting on sets where he absorbed every detail of filmmaking. From there, he climbed the ladder, becoming an assistant DOP (Director of Photography) and later a DOP, mastering the visual storytelling craft before stepping into the director’s chair.A Story of Perseverance and PassionVicky Kaushal, who worked closely with Utekar on Chhaava, describes his journey as “worthy of a biopic.” Utekar never lost sight of his vision. His experience in cinematography provided him with a strong foundation, allowing him to create visually stunning films that resonate deeply with audiences. Laxman Utekar and his team spent four years working on Chhaava, meticulously researching and planning every detail to bring the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj to life. When casting Vicky Kaushal, Utekar set a high bar—ensuring the actor underwent rigorous horse riding and sword fighting training before stepping into the role. His dedication to authenticity and storytelling is evident in every frame of the film.Utekar’s collaboration with Vicky Kaushal began with Zara Hatke Zara Bachke. During that project, he shared his vision for Chhaava with the actor, planting the seeds for their next cinematic journey. Over time, their relationship evolved beyond that of a director and actor—Vicky considers him a mentor and close friend, someone who has deeply influenced his career and outlook on life.Chhaava’s Box Office TriumphReleased on February 14, Chhaava has taken the box office by storm, amassing a staggering ₹72 crore within two days. With its rapid success, the film crossed the 100 crore mark within its first three days of release, making it a major box office success.Chhaava has crossed the Rs 350 crore mark at the box office in two weeks. Featuring an ensemble cast including Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Divya Dutta, Santosh Juvekar, Ashutosh Rana, and Vineet Singh, the film has struck a chord with audiences nationwide.Laxman Utekar’s story provides a ray of hope for aspiring filmmakers and dreamers everywhere. His journey proves that determination, talent, and perseverance can overcome even the toughest challenges. From cleaning floors to creating cinematic masterpieces, his story is a reflection of the power of ambition. Chhaava is not just a film—it’s a celebration of history, hard work, and the indomitable human spirit.