Divya Dutta Defends Rashmika Mandanna Amid ‘Chhaava’ Criticism: ‘Don’t Forget Her Hits’

Divya Dutta Defends Rashmika Mandanna Amid ‘Chhaava’ Criticism: On a positive note, Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna's historical period action film Chhaava has opened to a huge reception from the audience and enjoys a dream run at the box office. However, a section of the audience has raised flags against Rashmika for the portrayal of Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale. Well, her co-star Divya Dutta has responded to the controversy in an interview held with India Today Digital.

Also Read: Afghanistan vs South Africa Live Score, Champions Trophy 2025: Ryan Rickleton’s Century Powers SA’s Dominance

Divya Dutta defends Rashmika

Rashmika received several negative reviews on Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale, many critics taking particular umbrage against her vocal delivery in film. Defending Rashmika, Divya stated, "Although we didn’t have scenes together, I believe she is an incredible actor. If you look at her kohl-rimmed eyes in certain scenes, they are simply mesmerising. Let’s not forget that she has delivered several hits, which clearly means she has something that resonates with the audience. From what I know, she is a hardworking and genuinely sweet person. Mujhe toh bahut pyaari lagti hai (I find her adorable), I don’t know what others think."

She further noted that audiences will always have differing opinions and added, "The thing is, everyone will have a different opinion. Some might say, ‘Oh, you should have had a longer role in the film,’ while others might say, ‘Oh, you had a great presence.’ Whether it’s for me or Rashmika, we gave our best, others did their part, and now the audience is doing theirs. What truly matters is that the film is performing well and is among the biggest blockbusters of the year—we should celebrate that."

Also Read: Shiri Bibas’ Body Identified: Family Confirms Hamas Returned Remains Overnight

About Chhaava

Presenting a historical action film, Chhaava is based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, the film is based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant. Other cast members include Vineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash, Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb, Diana Penty as Zinat-un-Nissa Begum, Neil Bhoopalam as Prince Muhammad Akbar, Ashutosh Rana as Hambirrao Mohite.

The film has become the biggest box-office blockbuster of 2025, beating Akshay Kumar's sky force. Chhaava has taken about ₹338 crore worldwide within just eight days of its run in theatres, according to Sacnilk.

Also Read: Covid-Like Bat Virus HKU5-CoV-2 Found at Wuhan Lab: Can It Infect Humans?