Laxman Utekar Apologises After Ganoji, Kanhoji Shirke Descendants Accuse Chhaava Of ‘Misinterpreting Historical Facts’

In the recently released film Chhaava, Ganoji and Kanhoji were projected to be the traitors in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s army. Now, the descendants of Ganoji and Kanhoji Shirke have raised objections and demanded an apology from Laxman Utekar. The director of the film responded to their grievances and shared his side of the story.

Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava is the first Hindi blockbuster of 2025. Based on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and his bravery, the film is ruling the box office. Amid its success, the descendants of Ganoji and Kanhoji Shirke criticised the makers for not consulting them before projecting them in a negative light in the film. Claimed to be Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s loyalists, their family members demanded an apology from director Laxman Utekar .

According to local Maharashtra news channels, Bhushan Shirke, one of the descendants, received an apology from Laxman. A Marathi news portal revealed the conversation that took place between them.

Laxman Utekar apologises

As per Pudhari, Laxman spoke to Bhushan to clarify that Chhaava never mentioned Ganoji and Kanhoji’s surnames. He further apologised for hurting the family’s sentiment, unintentionally

He added, “We have only mentioned the names of Ganoji and Kanhoji in Chhaava, without referring to their surname. We’ve also made sure to not disclose the village they belonged to. Our intention was not to hurt the sentiments of the Shirke family. I sincerely apologise if Chhaava caused any discomfort.”

What Shirkes had to say

In a statement, Laxmikant Raje Shirke, 13th descendant of Ganoji and Kanhoji Shirke, reacted to the projection of his ancestors in Chhaava and said, “This is nothing but the misinterpretation of historical facts. It tarnishes the family’s reputation. Hence, we have issued a notice to the film director and will file a defamation case of Rs 100 crore against him.”

Reportedly, the family issued a notice on February 20 to Laxman demanding clarification and necessary modifications in the film. Furthermore, a statewide protest was threatened if their concerns were not addressed. Additionally, a complaint application was filed with the Pune city Police Commissioner seeking legal action against filmmakers.