What is chaava?

Chaava, meaning "lion cub" in Marathi, is a historical fiction novel by Indian author Shivaji Sawant. It centers on the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire.

The novel portrays Sambhaji as a valiant and intelligent warrior, a skilled administrator, and a complex individual facing numerous challenges. It covers his early life, his turbulent relationship with his father, his struggles against the Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb, and his eventual capture and execution.

"Chaava" is known for its vivid descriptions of 17th-century Maharashtra, its portrayal of key historical figures, and its exploration of themes such as courage, loyalty, betrayal, and the price of leadership. The book offers a glimpse into the political and social landscape of the Maratha Empire and its fight for independence.