Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Movie Overview
- Historical Context of the Maratha Empire
- Succession Dispute After Shivaji Maharaj
- Shambhaji Maharaj’s Reign: Challenges and Controversies
- Controversies Arising from “Chhava”
- Allegations Against the Shirke Family
- The Brahminical Conspiracy Theory
- Aurangzeb’s Treatment of Shambhaji Maharaj: Fact vs. Fiction
- The Gudi Padwa Connection
- Views of Savarkar and Golwalkar on Shambhaji Maharaj
- Conclusion
Disclaimer
This article discusses historical events and interpretations related to the Maratha Empire and associated figures. The following terms are used with specific implications:
- Brahmin/Brahminical: Refers to the Brahmin caste and the ideology/social system associated with it (Brahminism).
- Maratha: Implies the Maratha community and sometimes the Maratha Empire.
- Shudra: Refers to the Shudra caste in the traditional Hindu caste system.
- Hindu/Hinduism: Used in the context of historical religious practices and beliefs prevalent during the Maratha Empire.
- Muslim/Islam: Used in the context of historical interactions and conflicts during the Maratha Empire.
- Andh Bhakt: A person blindly following anything without any critical thinking
- Godi Media: Media who is inclined to a particular political party
Disclaimer: This article discusses sensitive historical topics. Reader discretion is advised, as the content may evoke strong emotional responses.
Chhava Movie Overview
The film “Chhava” is based on the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire and son of the great Shivaji Maharaj. The movie has gained significant popularity, particularly in Maharashtra, and is considered a blockbuster. However, critics accuse it of misrepresenting events and characters, stirring historical controversies.
Novel Adaptation of Chhava
The film is adapted from a novel titled “Chhava,” written by Shivaji Sawant. The narrative claims to be based on true historical events, further fueling debates and discussions.
Popularity and Box Office Success of Chhava
Despite the controversies, “Chhava” has enjoyed immense popularity and commercial success, drawing large crowds to theaters. The emotional connection that viewers feel with the characters and events is palpable, with reports of people crying during screenings.
Portrayal of Aurangzeb in Chhava
A significant aspect of the film is its portrayal of Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor, who is depicted in an extremely negative light. Is Aurangzeb’s depiction in “Chhava” a historical portrait or a caricature designed to evoke a specific emotional response? This depiction has led to widespread condemnation of Aurangzeb by viewers.
Historical Context of the Maratha Empire
To understand the controversies surrounding “Chhava,” it is essential to delve into the historical context of the Maratha Empire. The empire emerged during a period of significant social and political upheaval. Therefore, understanding the backdrop is crucial.
Bhakti Movement
The Bhakti movement, led by Maratha saints like Namdev and Tukaram, played a crucial role in fostering social awakening in the Maratha region. This movement promoted equality and opposed caste-based discrimination.
Rise of Shivaji Maharaj
Amidst this social awakening, Shivaji Maharaj emerged from the lower castes, challenging the existing social order. His struggle was twofold: against the Mughal Empire and against the prevailing Brahminical system.
Struggle Against Mughal Empire and Brahminism
Shivaji Maharaj’s battles were not only against the Mughals but also against the rigid Brahminical hierarchy. He faced significant opposition in his coronation, requiring two separate ceremonies because brahmin from Mharahstra refused to coronate him as he was from Shudra Varna.
Death of Shivaji Maharaj
The death of Shivaji Maharaj in 1680 is shrouded in mystery, with theories suggesting he was poisoned. As a result, his death led to a succession dispute, setting the stage for further conflicts and controversies.
Succession Dispute After Shivaji Maharaj
Following Shivaji Maharaj’s death, a dispute arose regarding the succession to the Maratha throne. The main contenders were Sambhaji Maharaj, Shivaji’s eldest son, and Rajaram, his younger son from another wife. These succession disputes provide a crucial backdrop for understanding the controversies surrounding the movie Chhava, as differing perspectives on Sambhaji Maharaj’s character and reign fuel debates about the film’s accuracy.
Mainstream Historians’ Perspective
Mainstream historians often portray Sambhaji Maharaj critically, acknowledging his valor and military skills but also highlighting alleged vices such as addiction and attraction to women.
Imprisonment of Sambhaji Maharaj
Some accounts suggest that Shivaji Maharaj confined Sambhaji Maharaj in Panhala Fort due to his alleged vices. This imprisonment further complicated the succession scenario.
Coronation of Sambhaji Maharaj
Despite the controversies, Sambhaji Maharaj ascended to the throne in 1680 and underwent a formal coronation in 1681, solidifying his position as the Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire.
Shambhaji Maharaj’s Reign: Challenges and Controversies
Sambhaji Maharaj’s reign, though brief (1680-1689), was marked by numerous challenges and controversies. He faced internal and external conspiracies while striving to expand and consolidate the Maratha Empire.
Internal Conspiracies and Betrayals
Sambhaji Maharaj’s rule was fraught with internal conspiracies and betrayals. Some of his own officials colluded with the Mughals, leading to his eventual capture.
Capture and Torture by Aurangzeb
Aurangzeb captured Sambhaji Maharaj, and historical accounts suggest he was subjected to brutal torture before his death. The extent and nature of this torture remain a point of contention.
Aftermath of Shambhaji Maharaj’s Death
The period following Sambhaji Maharaj’s death also has a part to play in the whole story. This shall also be kept in mind when the movie is being analysed.
Historical Sources and Their Limitations
Historical accounts from the Maratha Empire are often exaggerated and lack objectivity. Maratha rulers commissioned “Bakhars” (chronicles, often embellished accounts of historical events). English writers also documented the Maratha history but with their biases. Similarly, Aurangzeb’s history was written from a Muslim perspective, adding to the complexity of historical analysis.
Controversies Arising from “Chhava”
The film “Chhava” has sparked several controversies, primarily revolving around the depiction of historical figures and events.
Cashing in on Muslim Hatred
Critics argue that the film aims to exploit existing anti-Muslim sentiments by portraying Aurangzeb as excessively cruel. The film focuses on Aurangzeb’s cruelty towards Shambhaji Maharaj to evoke strong emotional responses from the audience.
Brahminical Conspiracy
The film has also brought to light the Brahminical conspiracy behind Shambhaji Maharaj’s capture. Critics argue that the movie attempts to divert attention from the Brahminical elements involved in the betrayal, focusing instead on Aurangzeb.
Who Betrayed Shambhaji Maharaj?
The central controversy lies in identifying the real betrayers of Sambhaji Maharaj. Was it the Marathas or the Brahmins? This question has fueled intense debates and discussions following the film’s release.
Allegations Against the Shirke Family
One of the primary controversies involves the portrayal of the Shirke family, particularly Ganuji Shirke and Kanoji Shirke, as betrayers of Sambhaji Maharaj.
Shirke Family’s Response
Historians’ Perspectives on Shirke Family
Historians like Indrajit Sawant suggest that the Shirke brothers had aligned with Aurangzeb long before Sambhaji Maharaj’s capture. However, other historians offer conflicting accounts, further complicating the issue.
“Ganuji Shirke and Kanoji Shirke had aligned with Aurangzeb long before Sambhaji Maharaj’s capture” – Indrajit Sawant
Accounts from French Authors
French authors like Francis Martin, who documented contemporary events, provide varying accounts. Martin noted in his diary that Sambhaji Maharaj was betrayed due to hatred towards his aide, Kavi Kalash, but did not explicitly name the individuals involved.
Contradictory Evidence
Historical records indicate that Sambhaji Maharaj himself had penalized the Shirke family, confiscating their properties. However, these events occurred before his capture, adding complexity to the allegations.
“Francis Martin’s account is not entirely reliable as he often wrote disparagingly about Sambhaji Maharaj.”
The Brahminical Conspiracy Theory
Another significant controversy revolves around the alleged Brahminical conspiracy behind Sambhaji Maharaj’s capture and death.
Role of Annaji Datto
Historians like Indrajit Sawant argue that Annaji Datto, a Brahmin secretary under Shivaji Maharaj, was the primary conspirator. He accuses the film of falsely portraying Soyarabai Bhosale, Shivaji’s second wife, as the main antagonist.
Threats to Historians
Indrajit Sawant claims to have received threats for asserting the Brahminical conspiracy theory. He alleges that some individuals have warned him against criticizing Brahmins, especially under the current political climate in Maharashtra.
Historical Evidence and Disagreements
While some historians agree on Annaji Datto’s involvement, there are disagreements regarding the extent of his role. Accounts from French governors like Franco Martin suggest that a Brahmin clerk provided information to the Mughals, leading to Sambhaji Maharaj’s capture.
“The film distorts history by portraying Soyarabai Bhosale as the main antagonist while shielding the Brahmin secretary, Annaji Datto, who was the actual conspirator.” -Indrajit Sawant.
Aurangzeb’s Treatment of Sambhaji Maharaj: Fact vs. Fiction
The film’s portrayal of Aurangzeb’s brutal treatment of Sambhaji Maharaj has also come under scrutiny. The film highlights Aurangzeb torturing and murdering Sambhaji Maharaj.
Varying Historical Accounts
Historical sources offer differing accounts of Aurangzeb’s treatment of Sambhaji Maharaj. While most agree that Sambhaji Maharaj was tortured before his death, the specific details vary widely. Some accounts mention blinding with hot irons, while others describe the body being cut into pieces.
Muslim Perspectives
Muslim accounts suggest that Sambhaji Maharaj was asked to surrender his forts and treasures and reveal the names of Mughal collaborators. They also claim that Sambhaji Maharaj insulted Emperor Aurangzeb and the Prophet Muhammad, leading to his execution.
Lack of Uniformity in Accounts
The lack of uniform accounts raises doubts about the accuracy of the gruesome details depicted in the film. Some historians suggest that these accounts may have been fabricated later.
“There is a lack of consistent evidence to support the claims of extreme torture, such as gouging out eyes and feeding the body to dogs.”
The Gudi Padwa Connection
A controversial theory links Sambhaji Maharaj’s death to the Gudi Padwa festival celebrated in Maharashtra. Gudi Padwa, a spring festival marking the traditional New Year for Hindus in Maharashtra. This theory suggests that Brahmins killed Sambhaji Maharaj according to the laws of Manusmriti and celebrated their victory by hoisting Gudi flags.
Manusmriti and the Punishment of Shudras
This theory posits that Aurangzeb ordered the torture and Brahmins executed them as per the laws of Manusmriti because the Shudras had no rights. Manu Smriti is an ancient legal text that outlines social and religious duties.
Lack of Historical Evidence
The authenticity of the claims is greatly doubted as it lacks substantial historical background. Nevertheless, this event is the reason behind the celebration of this festival in Maharashtra according to a certain group.
The Logic Behind the Theory
The theory claims that Sambhaji Maharaj, being from a lower caste, challenged the Brahminical system. The killing was to punish him for writing books and challenging the Brahminical norms of the time. Thus, the Brahmin did something according to their beliefs and then celebrated their victory.
The Gudi Padwa theory of the murder of Sambhaji Maharaj offers as much proof as any other theory. It has strong logic, and its narrative and celebrations fit into our history.
Relevance to the story of Ram
It is said that the Gudi Parwa festival is to welcome the homecoming of lord Ram, however that ritual is not celebrated at Ayodhya, and hence there arises a reason why this celebration is contained within Maharashtra.
Views of Savarkar and Golwalkar on Shambhaji Maharaj
Interestingly, prominent Hindutva ideologues like Savarkar and Golwalkar were critical of Sambhaji Maharaj. This contrasts sharply with the present-day portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj as a Hindu icon by RSS supporters.
Savarkar’s Criticism
Golwalkar’s Allegations
Incongruence with Present-Day Hindutva Narratives
This historical criticism from Savarkar and Golwalkar raises questions about the authenticity of the current Hindutva narrative that glorifies Sambhaji Maharaj. It also highlights the inconsistencies in how historical figures are portrayed to serve contemporary political agendas.
Conclusion
The controversies surrounding the movie Chhava underscore the complexities and biases inherent in historical interpretations. While the film has ignited important discussions about Maratha history, it is crucial to approach such narratives with a critical and discerning eye. By examining various perspectives and historical sources, we can strive for a more balanced and accurate understanding of the past.
Is untangling Maratha history like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces and a deliberately misleading picture on the box?
Watch “Chhava” and engage in thoughtful discussions. Seek out diverse historical accounts and analyses to form your own informed opinions. Share this article to promote a balanced historical understanding.
Find out more about Reservation in India and the myths around it.
Read about the North-South Divide and it’s implications.
Also, don’t forget to comment if you want to discuss the topic further.
Do you disagree with this article? If you have strong evidence to back your claims, we invite you to join our live debates every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday on YouTube. Let’s engage in a respectful, evidence-based discussion to uncover the truth. Watch the latest debate on this topic below and share your perspective!
Very well