'Chhaava': Vicky Kaushal reacts to controversy over deleted 'lezim' scene
What's the story
Vicky Kaushal, the lead of the upcoming historical drama Chhaava, has finally spoken up about the controversy over a deleted scene from his film.
The controversial sequence showed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj dancing with a lezim (a traditional musical instrument). The scene was deleted after Maharashtra minister Uday Samant and some cultural groups objected to it.
Responding to the controversy, Kaushal said the scene wasn't important to the narrative but was an effort to showcase Maharashtrian culture globally.
Actor's perspective
'If his followers feel it was a bit off...'
Kaushal clarified, "The lezim part was just for 20-30 seconds in the film. It was not just a part of the story, but it was an effort to take our culture to the globe."
He admitted that even though the intentions behind this sequence were good, it was criticized by followers of Sambhaji Maharaj who found it inappropriate.
On their concerns, Kaushal and his team removed the scene from Chhaava.
Director's initiative
'Chhaava' director engaged in discussions to resolve controversy
The controversy started after Samant objected to the scene, calling it inappropriate and threatening to stop the film's release.
Subsequently, Chhaava's director Laxman Utekar held talks with political and cultural leaders, including Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray.
After the talks, it was assured that any objectionable scenes would be cut out before the film's release.
The movie, also starring Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna, is set to hit theaters on February 14.
Actor's commitment
Kaushal's preparation and dedication for 'Chhaava'
Kaushal emphasized the team's respect for the subject, saying, "Not a single day went by when we didn't start work on the film without the Shivgarjana (slogans about the courage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj)."
He added that his preparation for the role took nearly a year.
"It took me seven months to prepare for this movie...to grow long hair, beard, study the language and culture, develop the physique, and undergo training for action sequences."