Swara Bhasker, an actress known for her outspoken views, has stirred controversy with her latest social media post. On February 19, 2025, she criticized those upset by the depiction of torture in the film Chhaava, which stars Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Her remarks, contrasting the reaction to the movie with the lack of outrage over a deadly stampede, have ignited a heated online debate, drawing sharp responses from netizens.
Swara’s Controversial Statement
In her tweet, Bhasker questioned societal priorities, writing:
The comment refers to Chhaava, a historical drama released on February 14, 2025, and a recent stampede tragedy, presumed to be the Maha Kumbh incident, though not explicitly named.
Netizens Push Back
The actress’s remarks quickly drew ire online. Many accused her of trivializing the historical suffering of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, a revered Maratha figure executed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1689. One X user countered, “Sambhaji Maharaj’s resistance and brutal execution are well-documented in history, not fiction. Mughal atrocities, like temple destruction and forced conversions, are facts from sources like Maasir-i-Alamgiri, not fairy tales. Denying them shows a shaky grasp of history.”
Others escalated the criticism, tagging political figures like Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. A commenter wrote, “This offends us more than an Allahbadia quote. She’s repeatedly disrespecting Hindu sentiments and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. We request action—our patience has limits.” Another added, “Living in Maharashtra and calling the torture by barbaric Mughals fictional is audacious and unfaithful.”
Context of Chhaava
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava features Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj, with Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in supporting roles. The film, nearing Rs 200 crore at the box office, has been praised for its portrayal of the Maratha warrior’s legacy, though some scenes have sparked emotional reactions, including an incident of a theater screen being torn during a sequence involving Khanna’s character, Aurangzeb.
A Polarizing Debate
Bhasker’s history of vocal political commentary has often landed her in the spotlight, and this incident is no exception. Her comparison of a cinematic depiction with a real-life tragedy has split opinions, with some defending her right to critique, while others see it as an affront to cultural and historical sensitivities. The online clash underscores the tension between artistic interpretation, historical reverence, and current events, leaving Bhasker at the center of yet another social media storm.