Former cricketer Aakash Chopra questions why Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is not widely taught in Indian schools after watching Chhaava. His remarks on Akbar and Aurangzeb stir a heated debate online. Meanwhile, he analyzes RCB’s IPL 2025 schedule.
Aakash Chopra’s ‘Chhaava’ Comment Sparks Debate on Indian History Education
The recently released Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has received a positive response from audiences across India. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the historical epic portrays the life and valor of Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the second ruler of the Maratha Confederacy. The film also stars Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna, Ashutosh Rana, Diana Penty, and Divya Dutta in key roles.
Amid the film’s success, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts after watching Chhaava, raising questions about India’s history curriculum.
“Watched Chhaava today. Incredible tale of bravery, selflessness, and duty. Genuine question—why were we not taught about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj at all in school? Not even a mention anywhere! But we did learn how Akbar was a great and fair emperor, and even have a very prominent road called Aurangzeb Road in Delhi. Why and how did it happen?” Chopra wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Social Media Debate Ensues
His remarks triggered a debate, with users expressing mixed reactions. One user mocked Chopra, stating, “Because, as a failed cricketer, you were also a failed learner of history.”
Chopra quickly responded, saying, “Topped my school in 12th. Got 80% marks in history. Thank you.”
Despite the online debate, Chhaava has been a commercial success. Released on February 14, the film has grossed over ₹120 crore, recording an impressive 62.48% Hindi occupancy on its first Sunday.
Aakash Chopra on RCB’s IPL 2025 Schedule
Switching gears from history to cricket, Chopra also analyzed the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) schedule for IPL 2025, describing it as “intriguing.”
Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face RCB in the IPL 2025 opener at Eden Gardens on March 22. Chopra noted that RCB has a home-heavy schedule toward the business end of the league, which could either work in their favor or prove challenging.
“It’s interesting for Bengaluru. Three of their last four and four of their last six games are at home. Last season, they performed well in a similar scenario, but KKR has historically dominated them. Facing KKR at both the start and end of the season could be tricky,” Chopra analyzed on his YouTube channel.
RCB, who qualified for the IPL 2024 playoffs after a late surge, will hope for a strong finish again this season. Their final league match will also be against KKR in Bengaluru on May 17.
IPL 2025 Updates
- KKR and Delhi Capitals (DC) are yet to announce their captains.
- Rajat Patidar has been named RCB’s new captain.
- Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) and Rishabh Pant (LSG) have been confirmed as team skippers.
- Visakhapatnam and Guwahati will serve as home venues for DC and Rajasthan Royals (RR), respectively.
- Punjab Kings (PBKS) will play three home games in Dharamsala.
With Chhaava dominating the box office and IPL 2025 gearing up, Aakash Chopra has found himself at the center of discussions across both history and cricket.