Redditors say not Rashmika Mandanna but Mrunal Thakur was the perfect choice for Maharani Yesubai’s role in Chhaava

The period drama Chhaava, helmed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Maddock Films, hit theaters on February 14, and while Vicky's portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj has been lauded, Rashmika's role as Maharani Yesubai has left many unimpressed. And let’s be real, this isn’t exactly shocking. Even before the film’s release, Reddit was buzzing with doubts about whether she was the right choice for such a regal and culturally rooted role.

Chhaava makers had a golden opportunity to cast Mrunal as Maharani Yesubhai. Not just for the aesthetics, but she was literally tailor-made for the role - her marathi background and natural command over the language, she would’ve killed it...unlike Rashmika, who completely fumbled there.
byu/pikapika0007 inBollyBlindsNGossip

Vicky Kaushal’s performance in Chhaava has audiences swooning, but Rashmika Mandanna? Not so much.

Now, post-release, those doubts have turned into full-fledged critiques. A viral Reddit thread has netizens arguing that Rashmika lacks the grace, poise, and linguistic finesse required to do justice to Maharani Yesubai. One user noted that Mrunal Thakur, who wowed audiences in Sita Ramam, would have been the perfect choice, citing her Marathi heritage and her effortless princess-like aura. “She was literally tailor-made for the role,” a user commented, adding that her command over the language would have added a layer of authenticity Rashmika simply couldn’t deliver.

Reddit users bash Rashmika for her acting in Chhaava

Another user pointed out Rashmika’s struggle with Hindi in her past roles and questioned why directors continue to cast her in parts that require a strong grasp of the language. “She barely speaks Hindi in Animal, and now we expect her to embody a Marathi queen?” the user remarked.

Some even compared her portrayal to Priyanka Chopra’s iconic Kashibai in Bajirao Mastani, arguing that the bar had been set too high, and Rashmika didn’t come close. “Can we please bring back Priyanka? No one’s done it like her since,” a discussion read.

Despite the criticism, the film itself continues to perform well, and Rashmika still has a massive fanbase cheering her on. But when it comes to historical accuracy and authenticity, netizens seem to believe Chhaava’s makers missed a golden opportunity.

Success of Chhaava

As the debate rages on, one thing is clear, Vicky Kaushal is basking in all the love, while Rashmika’s casting remains the internet’s latest hot topic.