Shardul Pandit Praises Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava and Questions Bollywood & Education System

Ziya Khan February 18, 2025Last Updated: February 18, 2025

Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal’s period drama Chhaava, based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, is receiving widespread appreciation online. The latest to join the chorus of praise is television actor and radio jockey Shardul Pandit, who lauded the film for its accurate portrayal of the rich history of the Maratha Empire. However, Shardul also raised compelling questions about Bollywood and the Indian education system’s neglect of such great historical figures.

Sharing his thoughts, Shardul said, “I saw Chhaava yesterday and couldn’t help but ask my friend, ‘Why didn’t we study this in school?’ Why do I remember so many other things, but have no idea about the immense contributions of great Maratha warriors like Sambhaji or Shivaji? Why haven’t I grown up feeling proud of these heroes?”He continued, “Why don’t I remember the glorious Maratha rule, their principles, values, and bravery? Shouldn’t we as a society take immense pride in these exemplary warriors and heroes?”

Shardul also criticized Bollywood for previously shying away from telling such important stories and questioned why these figures were omitted or underrepresented in school textbooks. Shardul went on to applaud Maddock Films, director Laxman Utekar, and Vicky Kaushal for creating “a very accurate film”. He also condemned YouTubers criticizing the film for its political undertones and encouraged audiences to watch it with their children. Check his long message on Instagram as under:

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A post shared by SHARDUL PANDIT (@shardulpandit)

“We have done a gross injustice to this glorious Maratha Sher, #ChhatrapatiSambhajiMaharaj, by not celebrating him enough in our history,” he added. Tagging Vicky and Laxman, Shardul wrote, “You should be so proud of yourselves.”The internet echoed Shardul’s sentiments, with many netizens sharing how they were never taught the history of Maratha warriors in school.Have you watched Chhaava yet? Share your thoughts with us!