Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna's Chhaava faces CBFC edits, 'Haramz*ada' word muted

CBFC demands changes in Chhaava

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has requested several changes to Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna's highly awaited film, Chhaava, ahead of its theatrical release on February 14.

The filmmakers, who have been actively promoting the movie, are working closely with the board to ensure the film meets the necessary guidelines. Among the modifications made, one of the most notable is the removal of the word ‘haramz*ada,’ which has been muted to ensure the film passes with a smoother certification for its public screening.

These adjustments are common practice in the film industry, as CBFC often recommends edits to ensure the content aligns with cinematic standards and audience sensitivities. Despite the necessary changes, the buzz around Chhaava remains strong, as it prepares for its grand release. The film, a period drama, has already created considerable anticipation due to its star-studded cast and intriguing storyline.

As reported by Bollywood Hungama, Chhaava underwent several changes during the censorship process. One of the key alterations involved the dialogue "Mughal sultanat ka zehar" (Mughal empire’s poison), which has now been replaced with "Uss samay, kayi shaasak aur sultanat khud ko zinda rakhne ki koshish kar rahe the" (At that time, many rulers and empires were trying to keep themselves alive).

CBFC also ordered the line ‘Khoon toh aakhir Mughalon ka hi hai (The blood is of the Mughals after all)’ to be changed to ‘Khoon toh hai Aurang ka hi (It’s Aurang’s blood).’

The words ‘haramz*don’ and ‘haramz*da’ have been censored, while ‘Aameen’ has been substituted with ‘Jai Bhavani.’ Other adjustments include changing '16 saal' (16 years) to '14 saal' (14 years), '22 saal ka ladka' (22-year-old boy) to '24 saal ka ladka' (24-year-old boy), and '9 saal' (9 years) to 'kayi saal' (many years).

As per the report, the CBFC directed the filmmakers of Chhaava to remove a scene showing Maratha warriors wearing sarees. Additionally, they were instructed to add an audio-text disclaimer acknowledging the book the film is adapted from and clarifying that the movie does not aim to defame anyone or distort historical facts.

According to the CBFC website, Chhaava was officially certified on February 1, 2025. The film has been given a ‘UA 16+’ rating and holds a certified runtime of 161 minutes and 50 seconds, which is equivalent to 2 hours, 41 minutes, and 50 seconds.

Chhaava, a historical drama centered around the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is helmed by director Laxman Utekar. The film boasts a stellar cast, featuring Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna in pivotal roles, alongside talented actors such as Ashutosh Rana, Divya Dutta, Vineet Kumar Singh, Diana Penty, and Santosh Juvekar.