Clamour for tax exemption to Vicky Kaushal’s ‘Chhaava’ film grows

Mumbai: Several organisations have demanded that Vicky Kaushal’s ‘Chhaava’ film should be made tax-free in Maharashtra. The film based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji has been performing well at the box office.

The Mumbai Dabbawala Association has requested Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis to declare Vicky Kaushal’s ‘Chhaava’ film tax-free in the state. The association said that it is important to declare the film tax-free in the state so that more people can watch it and understand the life and sacrifices of the Maratha king.

“Our ancestors were warriors in the army of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and fought alongside him on the battlefield. For us, both Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj are revered figures,” said Subhash Talekar, president of the Mumbai Dabbawala Association.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has also urged the Maharashtra government to exempt the film from the entertainment duty. In a statement, the FWICE said, “We appeal that the movie reaches a wider audience as the legacy and courage of this great Maratha king should be known to the generations to come. Our government strongly believes in ‘Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah’, and this movie portrays exactly the same sentiments through the life story of the great Maratha king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.”

Hindu Janajagruti Samiti has urged the Maharashtra government to immediately make the film tax-free. It has submitted a memorandum to the CM as well as the cultural affairs minister and revenue minister.

Ramesh Shinde, national spokesperson of the HJS, said, “Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is not only the pride of Maharashtra but the entire Nation. His unparalleled sacrifice made Swarajya stronger, and his bravery set for the society, a prominent example of patriotism and devotion towards Dharma. The movie ‘Chhaava’ brings to life the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s unique feats. The Maharashtra government is requested to make the film tax-free. If the ticket prices are reduced, youth, students and the general public across Maharashtra will be able to watch this film. This will ensure that the heroic tale of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj reaches a wider audience. It will also preserve and promote Maharashtra’s historical and cultural heritage. Furthermore, it will inspire filmmakers and directors to create more such historical films in the future.”