"After the movie, people's emotions have been reignited."
Chhaava has been blamed for triggering riots in Nagpur, sparking concerns over communal tensions.
Starring Vicky Kaushal, Chhaava is based on Hindu warrior Sambhaji’s battle against Mughal ruler Aurangzeb.
Critics say Chhaava has reignited historical grievances and communal discord.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the state assembly.
He said: “Chhaava has ignited people’s anger against Aurangzeb.
“After the movie, people’s emotions have been reignited.
“The anger against Aurangzeb is being exhibited in a big way. Still, everyone must keep Maharashtra peaceful.”
Aurangzeb remains a controversial figure. Hindu nationalist groups accuse him of persecuting Hindus, though historians debate the claims.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced Aurangzeb in a campaign speech, attacking the opposition for allegedly glorifying the ruler.
In 2022, Aurangzeb’s burial city of Aurangabad was renamed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. Right-wing groups have since called for the removal of his tomb.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde compared Aurangzeb to Osama bin Laden.
He said: “The US refused to bury Osama bin Laden on its land and disposed of his body into the sea to prevent any kind of glorification.
“Why should we allow his glorification in our state? He is a blot on our history.”
On the other hand, the Shiv Sena said Fadnavis’ comments were a sign of his “weak morale”.
The editorial in the party mouthpiece Saamana said:
“Blaming Chhaava for Nagpur riots is a sign of Devendra Fadnavis’ weak morale.”
On March 17, Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal workers held a rally demanding the tomb’s removal. Protesters burned effigies of Aurangzeb.
Later, social media rumours claimed religious items were burned. The posts fuelled riots across Nagpur.
Clashes continued late into the night despite calls for peace.
The police arrested 51 people and launched criminal investigations against hundreds of unnamed individuals. At least 34 police officers were injured. Several homes and vehicles were damaged. A curfew has been imposed in parts of the city.
India remains deeply divided.
Tensions have increased in the last decade. Critics accuse the Modi government of enabling right-wing groups to target Muslims, who make up 14% of the population.
Modi has denied discrimination and insists his government serves all citizens.
However, he has been criticised for not addressing lynchings, vigilante attacks, and home demolitions targeting Muslims.
Nagpur’s unrest has raised concerns in Maharashtra, one of India’s most prosperous states.
Opposition parties accuse the government of inflaming communal tensions to divert attention from economic issues, including inflation, unemployment, and rural distress.
As Chhaava continues to spark debate, its impact on social harmony and political discourse remains under scrutiny.
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