Will Chhaava be tax-free in Maharashtra? Mumbai Dabbawalas write to the CM for approval

chhaava

Vicky Kaushal’s latest film Chhaava has been receiving an overwhelming response from audiences and has collected Rs 140 crore in less than a week at the Indian box office. Amidst this success, the Mumbai Dabbawala Association has written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, requesting that the film be declared tax-free in the state.

The association told Mid-day that Chhaava is an important film as it tells the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and his heroic journey.

They highlight that their ancestors were warriors who fought alongside Sambhaji Maharaj on the battlefield, making his legacy deeply personal to them.

Subhash Talekar, President of the Mumbai Dabbawala Association, emphasised that both Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj are revered figures in Maharashtra, and the film deserves to reach a wider audience.

By making the film tax-free, ticket prices would be reduced, allowing more people to watch and understand the life and sacrifices of Sambhaji Maharaj. The association feels this is crucial in educating the younger generation about Maharashtra’s rich history. They believe that the film not only entertains but also serves as an important tribute to the Maratha warrior king.

Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, Chhaava is a historical drama featuring Vicky Kaushal in the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.

The film also stars Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Ashutosh Rana, and Divya Dutta in key roles. It has been praised for its storytelling, performances, and historical accuracy. Money Control gave the film a 3 -star rating, appreciating how it captures the essence of Sambhaji Maharaj’s legacy.

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While the film continues to perform well in theaters, reports suggest that it will eventually premiere on Netflix after completing its theatrical run. Unlike many films that announce streaming partnerships in advance, the makers of Chhaava have kept these details under wraps. Typically, films land on streaming platforms 45–60 days post-release, but an official update from the team is still awaited.

For now, the decision to grant Chhaava a tax-free status in Maharashtra rests with the state government. The Mumbai Dabbawala Association and fans of the film are hoping for a positive response that will allow more people to experience the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj on the big screen.