Vicky Kaushal Reacts to Removal of Lezim Scene from Chhaava

Vicky Kaushal addressed the removal of a lezim scene from Chhaava amid protests in Maharashtra

Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal recently visited the Grishneshwar Temple in Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra, where he performed a special Shiv Puja ahead of his upcoming film Chhaava. The historical drama, in which he plays Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, is set to release in theaters on February 14.

During his interaction with the media, Vicky was asked about the removal of a controversial lezim scene from the film. Lezim is a traditional dance form of Maharashtra, and its inclusion in the film sparked protests, leading to its removal by the director, Laxman Utekar.

Vicky Kaushal Defends Lezim Scene

Addressing the controversy, Vicky explained that the lezim sequence was just a small part of the film, lasting around 20-30 seconds. “Not a single day went by when we didn’t begin our work on the film with Shivgarjana (slogans honoring Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj). The lezim part was an effort to showcase our culture to the world,” he said.

Vicky further added that since Sambhaji Maharaj was a king of the people, he would have participated in a dance with his subjects if requested. However, he acknowledged the concerns raised by some followers and stated that, since the scene was not crucial to the film’s story, it was removed.

Earlier, director Laxman Utekar had also defended the scene, stating that it was meant to highlight Maharaj’s connection with his people. “We imagined that a king like Sambhaji Maharaj, who was deeply loved by his people, might have joined them in a few steps of lezim. There was nothing wrong with it,” he told IANS.

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About Chhaava

Chhaava is a period drama that tells the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film stars Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji and Rashmika Mandanna as Maharani Yesubai. Akshaye Khanna also plays a key role. The story will depict the Maratha ruler’s reign, starting from his coronation in 1681.

After Chhaava, Vicky Kaushal will next be seen in Mahavatar, where he will portray the legendary warrior sage Parashurama. The film, based on Indian mythology, is set for release on Christmas 2026.

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