Chhava Shivaji Sawant [upd] -

One of the most striking aspects of Shivaji Sawant’s writing in Chhava is his narrative technique. Much like he did in Mrityunjay , Sawant employs the first-person perspective, but with a twist. The novel opens with the spirit of Sambhaji Maharaj reflecting on his life and the tumultuous events that led to his brutal execution

In popular folklore and colonial historiography, Sambhaji was often painted as a negligent, pleasure-seeking prince who nearly undid his father’s empire. He was the dark shadow in the golden narrative of the Maratha rise. Shivaji Sawant, however, was not satisfied with this superficial judgment. He spent years researching historical documents, letters (sanads), and contemporary accounts like the Sabhasad Bakhar . Chhava Shivaji Sawant

By naming the book "Chhava," Shivaji Sawant highlights the brutal reality of Sambhaji’s reign. Unlike his father, who died peacefully in his fort, the "Cub" was hunted, captured, and tortured to death by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The title captures the tragedy of potential destroyed by cruelty. One of the most striking aspects of Shivaji