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Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava, the historical action film based on the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, has found itself at the centre of a political and communal storm for its portrayal of Aurangzeb, the 17th-century Mughal emperor.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has linked the film to the ongoing violence in Nagpur, saying it has sparked anger among people against the late emperor, causing tensions and violent clashes in Nagpur over his tomb.

The violence erupted after members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), an Indian right-wing organisation, reportedly set fire to an effigy of Aurangzeb as well as his tomb while chanting slogans demanding the removal of his tomb in Aurangabad.

“Chhaava movie has ignited people’s anger against Aurangzeb. Still, everyone must keep Maharashtra peaceful,” said Fadnavis during his speech, according to the Hindustan Times. He also claimed that Monday’s violence in Nagpur, which followed rumours about a right-wing group burning a religious book, appeared to be “pre-planned” and “a conspiracy.”

“Specific houses and establishments were targeted by the mob,” he added, calling for restraint and urging people to not allow historical grievances to disrupt social harmony in the present day.

Monday’s unrest saw widespread riots across Nagpur, with several vehicles torched and well over a dozen people injured — including at least 15 police personnel. One officer was reported to be in critical condition.

While condemning the violence, Fadnavis said that strict action would be taken. “I have told the police commissioner to take whatever strict steps are necessary,” he said, assuring the assembly that law and order will be maintained at all costs.

An indefinite curfew has been imposed in multiple parts of the city to prevent escalation. The areas under curfew include Kotwali, Ganeshpeth, Lakadganj, Pachpaoli, Shantinagar, Sakkardara, Nandanvan, Imamwada, Yashodhara Nagar, and Kapil Nagar. The restrictions will reportedly remain in force until further notice.

In February, signboards of Delhi’s Akbar Road and Humayun Road were defaced by Chhaava fans. A group of people allegedly sprayed black paint on signboards and pasted pictures of Chhatrapati Shivaji on them. The defaced signboards have since been restored. Another incident saw a drunken fan ripping the movie screen at a Chhaava screening in Gujarat. The man was arrested.

Journalist Saurabh Shukla has also linked the Nagpur clash to Chhaava. “After watching Chhaava film, people came out on the streets with sticks and rods for Aurangzeb. Its actor Vicky Kaushal and producer have earned [INR 5.53 billion]. They’re now sitting in their Mercedes and are busy shooting another film. You are shouting slogans on the streets, breaking each other’s heads,” Shukla wrote.

While the makers of Chhaava have not issued a statement yet, the film — based on the legacy of a Maratha warrior who resisted Mughal rule — has already drawn mixed reactions for its portrayal of Aurangzeb.

The film faced backlash for allegedly fictionalising Hindu torture under Aurangzeb, with claims about it being historically inaccurate and exaggerated.