Viineet Kumar, who plays Kavi Kalash in ‘Chhaava‘, has been receiving immense praise for his performance in the Vicky Kaushal-led historical drama. In a conversation with India Today, the actor opened up about his journey in the industry, the impact of the film’s intense climax, and why box office numbers no longer affect him.
Despite being in the industry for over two decades, Viineet is often labeled “underrated,” a tag he has learned to accept. “Honestly, now I just smile. I have gone through so much and learned the hard way. I have built hope and seen it crash,” he shared. Recalling a childhood memory of watching Terminator, he spoke about how the villain’s ability to rebuild himself left a lasting impression on him. “I have learned that no matter the situation, I will always come back. I have learned to rebuild myself after being broken time and again,” he added.
Viineet also spoke about the emotionally charged climax of ‘Chhaava’, where his character and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (played by Vicky Kaushal) endure torture at the hands of Aurangzeb’s forces. The poetry exchange between the two characters during this sequence deeply resonated with audiences. Calling it his favorite moment in the film, Viineet said, “Something magical and divine happened that day. The brotherhood I shared with Vicky since Gangs of Wasseypur translated on screen. I never knew poetry could be a part of a climax and have such an impact—it felt like a miracle.”
While ‘Chhaava’ is inching toward the ₹200 crore mark, Viineet admitted that box office numbers no longer affect him. “I have been hurt so many times that I no longer feel pain. I trained so hard for Mukkabaaz, co-wrote it, but it got a small release and disappeared from theatres. As an actor, all you can do is put in your work with honesty—the rest is destiny.”
Viineet also revealed that director Laxman Utekar had him in mind for the role from the start, and he didn’t even have to audition. He credited Irshad Kamil for writing powerful lines for Kavi Kalash and praised A.R. Rahman’s background score, which enhanced the film’s emotional depth.
Up next, Viineet will be seen in Superboys of Malegaon, a project he hopes will further establish his name.
Meanwhile on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti today the actor posted a video with a caption that reads, “On the occasion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, I am reminded of a deeply spiritual and transformative moment in my journey. Before I began shooting for the role of Kavi Kalash in Chhaava, I visited Tulapur, a place of immense historical and spiritual significance. This sacred land is home to the mausoleums of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj ji and Kavi Kalash ji, and the path to the Temple of Bhagwan Shiv passes through these sites.
At Kavi Kalash’s saffron-colored mausoleum, I spent a long time in reflection, paying my respects and taking in the energy of the place. At Kavi Kalash’s saffron-colored mausoleum, I spent a long time in reflection, paying my respects and taking in the energy of the place. I also visited the Temple of Bhagwan Shiv and stood in silence at Sambhaji Maharaj’s mausoleum, deeply moved by the history and sacrifice that this land holds.
Standing there, I felt a surge of strength, one that helped me stay true to the role of Kavi Kalash with complete honesty. This visit was more than just seeking blessings; it was about grounding myself in the spirit of the character and carrying that emotion throughout the journey of the film.
Today, as we honor #ChhatrapatiShivajiMaharajji, I feel immense gratitude for the opportunity to bring this story to life and pay tribute to the legacy of these great warriors.
Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti ki aap sabhi ko hardik shubhkamna.
#ChatrapatiShivajiMaharajJayanti
#ChatrapatiSambhajiMaharaj
#KaviKalash
#HarHarMahadev
#JaiBhawani”
