2. Chhaava
Worldwide Collection: Rs 807.91 crore
Domestic Net: Rs 601.54 crore
Release Date: 14 February
Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna, Rashmika Mandanna
Budget: Rs 90–130 crore
Releasing on Valentine’s Day, Chhaava combined history with action, narrating the life of Sambhaji Maharaj—Shivaji Maharaj’s son and second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire. Vicky Kaushal’s transformation into Sambhaji received significant attention, while Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal of Aurangzeb became the biggest highlight, winning applause and recognition.
Although critical reception was mixed—mainly due to its length and dramatic liberties—the film’s grandeur, large-scale production, patriotic themes, and strong performances drove superb ticket sales.
The movie also laid the foundation for Akshaye Khanna’s renaissance at the box office, later strengthened with his role in Dhurandhar.
