Maharashtra CM Blames Chhaava Movie for “Igniting People’s Anger” Towards Aurangzeb Amid Nagpur Violence

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has blamed the recent controversy surrounding the film Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal, for fueling public anger towards the 17th-century Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. This comes a day after violence broke out in Nagpur triggered by rumors that a holy book had allegedly been burnt during a protest calling for the removal Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad.

Speaking in the Maharashtra legislative assembly, Fadnavis addressed the violence that erupted in Nagpur, describing the incident as "pre-planned," suggesting that it was not a spontaneous outburst. “This violent incident and riots seem to be pre-planned,” said Fadnavis. He added that certain houses and establishments had been singled out, giving the incident the appearance of a conspiracy.

The Chief Minister then linked the recent unrest to the release of Chhaava, a biopic about Chhatrapati Sambhaji. He claimed that the film had incited anger among the public towards Aurangzeb. Despite this, the Chief Minister urged citizens to maintain peace in the state. “Chhaava movie has ignited people’s anger against Aurangzeb. Still, everyone must keep Maharashtra peaceful,” Fadnavis said, calling for calm amid the growing tensions.

Tensions escalated in Nagpur on Monday when a large group, reportedly 200 to 250 members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, gathered near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mahal. The protesters called for the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb. Later, around 80 to 100 people gathered in Bhaldarpura, further intensifying the situation. The police noted that these gatherings caused disruptions, affecting public order and the movement of people on the roads.

In response to the violence, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis appealed for calm, urging citizens not to believe in rumours. "Nagpur has always been a city of peace and harmony. Do not believe unverified claims," the Chief Minister's Office stated, assuring the public that the situation was being closely monitored. Following the unrest, a curfew was imposed in several parts of Nagpur under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The curfew restricts movement and gatherings, with exemptions for essential services, and remains in place until further notice to prevent further disturbances.​