Lezim Dance in ‘Chhaava’ Creates Controversy: Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna Face Backlash

 

The upcoming movie Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, has found itself at the center of controversy after the release of a song featuring a Lezim dance sequence. While the makers intended to showcase the vibrant and traditional Marathi folk art, the sequence has drawn mixed reactions from viewers, especially from cultural purists and the local Marathi community.

What Is the Lezim Dance? 

Lezim is a traditional Maharashtrian folk dance performed with a small musical instrument called the lezim. It is often associated with festivals, cultural events, and processions, representing the energy and enthusiasm of the local culture. The dance is deeply rooted in Maharashtrian tradition and is performed with synchronized steps, colorful costumes, and rhythmic beats.

The Controversy 

The controversy erupted soon after the song was released online. Critics claimed that the portrayal of the Lezim dance in the movie was not authentic and failed to respect the cultural essence of the tradition. Many felt that the costumes and choreography leaned too much toward Bollywood glamor, diluting the raw, earthy appeal of the original folk dance.

Some members of the Marathi community expressed disappointment, saying that the Lezim dance, which holds a special place in Maharashtra’s cultural heritage, deserved a more authentic representation. Social media platforms were flooded with comments from viewers who argued that such a depiction could mislead audiences unfamiliar with the traditional art form.

Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna’s Involvement 

Both Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, known for their dedication to their roles, worked hard to learn the Lezim dance steps for the sequence. Sources close to the production team revealed that they underwent rigorous training to ensure their performance did justice to the art form. However, their efforts did not seem to satisfy critics, who believed that the Bollywood-style presentation overshadowed the cultural authenticity.

Filmmakers Respond 

In response to the backlash, the filmmakers defended their creative choices, stating that the song was designed to celebrate Maharashtra’s rich culture while appealing to a wider audience. They clarified that they had consulted experts to incorporate traditional elements into the choreography and costumes but added a contemporary twist to make the sequence visually appealing for modern viewers.

The director of Chhaava emphasized that the movie aims to promote the culture of Maharashtra on a larger platform and that the song should be seen as a tribute rather than a misrepresentation.

Fans Divided 

The controversy has left fans divided. While some appreciated the effort to bring regional culture to mainstream cinema, others felt that the dance sequence compromised on authenticity. Supporters of the movie argue that Bollywood often adds its unique flavor to traditional art forms to make them more relatable and entertaining.

On the other hand, cultural enthusiasts stress the importance of preserving the authenticity of such traditions, especially when they are showcased on a national or global stage.

Looking Ahead 

Despite the backlash, Chhaava continues to generate buzz as one of the most anticipated films of the year. Whether the controversy will affect the movie’s box office performance remains to be seen. Meanwhile, the debate around the representation of traditional art forms in Bollywood highlights the fine line between creative liberty and cultural responsibility.

Chhaava is scheduled to release soon, and audiences are eager to see how the Lezim sequence fits into the overall narrative of the film. For now, the song remains a talking point, sparking discussions about Bollywood’s role in preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage.