Nagpur Violence: Fadnavis Links ‘Chhaava’ to Rising Anger Against Aurangzeb

Nagpur: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has said that the recent violence in Nagpur was fueled by the release of Chhaava, a historical film starring Vicky Kaushal. Speaking in the Maharashtra Assembly, Fadnavis said, “The riots seem to be pre-planned. The movie Chhaava has stirred public anger against Aurangzeb, but people must maintain peace in Maharashtra.”  
 

How Chhava Sparked Tensions

Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar, tells the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, son of Shivaji Maharaj, and his battle against the Mughal Empire. The film depicts how Aurangzeb, the Mughal ruler, captured and brutally executed Sambhaji with the help of his brother-in-law, Ganoji Shirke. Since its release, the movie has sparked discussions about history and increased opposition to Aurangzeb's remains in Maharashtra.  

Protests Against Aurangzeb's Tomb Escalate  

Following the film’s release, protests against Aurangzeb’s tomb intensified. On March 17, around 200 to 250 members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal gathered near the Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mahal, Nagpur. They demanded the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave, chanting slogans and symbolically displaying a green cloth filled with cow dung cakes. While Hindu organisations have been vocal against the Mughal emperor’s grave, sections of the Muslim community have opposed its removal, increasing tensions in the region.  

Violence Erupts in Nagpur  

By Monday night, tensions turned into full-scale violence in central Nagpur. Mobs clashed in the streets, throwing stones, setting vehicles on fire, and vandalizing homes. The unrest was reportedly triggered by rumors spread on social media that a religious text had been desecrated. As the situation spiraled out of control, police stepped in to restore order, but they, too, became targets of the violence.  

During the violence, 33 police officers, including three deputy commissioners of police (DCPs), were injured. A senior police officer was even attacked with an axe. Authorities have since enforced a curfew to prevent further unrest.  

Police Crackdown on Rioters  

Speaking in the Assembly, Fadnavis stated that the violence was not random but a "planned conspiracy," with mobs deliberately targeting certain homes and businesses. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also suggested that the riots were orchestrated with the intent to create communal tensions.  

So far, police have arrested more than 50 people and registered multiple FIRs against those involved in the violence. Security has been tightened across Nagpur to prevent any further clashes.  

Since Nagpur is the headquarters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the government's handling of the violence is being closely watched. Political leaders have urged people to remain calm, while Fadnavis has warned that strict action will be taken against rioters.

With Nagpur being home to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the government's response to the violence is being closely watched. Political leaders have appealed for calm, while Fadnavis has issued a strict warning against rioters.