Ashish Pathode is a talented actor who portrays Antaji Mankeshwar Gandhe in the historical epic Chhaava. The film, starring Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna, brings to life the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, his queen Maharani Yesubai, and their struggle against Aurangzeb.Before stepping into this powerful role, Ashish Pathode worked closely with Vicky Kaushal as a dialect and performance coach for the actor’s transformation in Sam Bahadur. His deep understanding of linguistic nuances and historical authenticity made him an integral part of Kaushal’s preparation for the role.
Pathode’s role as Antaji Mankeshwar Gandhe, a trusted ally of Sambhaji Maharaj, showcases his dedication to period dramas and his ability to bring historical characters to life with depth and authenticity. With Chhaava, he joins a stellar cast in a film that celebrates the valor and resilience of the Maratha empire. His performance adds intensity and emotional depth to this much-anticipated historical spectacle. In an exclusive conversation with the actor, he shared his experience of working on such an emotional and brave story, his association with Vicky Kaushal, how emotionally draining it was while working for the climax scene, and much more.
An Emotionally Intense Experience on Set
When asked about his experience working on Chhaava, Ashish Pathode described it as an emotionally profound journey. He credited the film’s immersive production design and meticulous attention to detail for creating an atmosphere that allowed the actors to truly embody their characters.“The art director and production designer are visionaries who conducted extensive research to recreate the era authentically. From the intricate ornaments worn by the royal family to the designs on the talwars (swords), every detail was carefully crafted. Even when shooting the Rajyabhishek sequence, the emotions felt real. The set’s atmosphere made it easy for us to channel the required intensity,” he shared.
Pathode also highlighted the rigorous preparation involved, including four months of training in horse riding and sword fighting. Unlike in many films where stunt doubles are used, the actors in ‘Chhaava’ performed their own action sequences, ensuring authenticity. “We actually rode the horses, did speed-ups, gallops, and executed our entry scenes ourselves. It wasn’t just staged—it was real, and that added depth to our performances,” he said.
Emotional Toll of the War Sequences
Discussing the film’s emotionally draining war sequences, Pathode emphasized the mental and physical toll they took on the actors. “In the film, we portray victory, but behind that, there’s immense struggle. The relationship between Antaji, Rayaji, and Maharaj was deep—they weren’t just warriors; they were his shadow, his confidants. While shooting the climax, we were struck by the gravity of what Sambhaji Maharaj endured in real life. It wasn’t just a scene for us—it was a moment of realization,” he said.
One of the most harrowing scenes to shoot was the battle sequence at night. “We had to recreate the suffocating conditions in which many Maratha soldiers perished. The sheer resilience they showed, fighting despite knowing they were outnumbered, was heart-wrenching. That intensity translated onto the screen,” he recalled.
Working with Vicky Kaushal and Director Laxman Utekar
Having previously worked with Vicky Kaushal in Sam Bahadur, Pathode praised the actor’s down-to-earth nature and dedication. “Vicky is extremely humble and grounded. The reason why he is so much desi and gives a feeling of him being the ‘boy next door’ is because he comes from a normal family. He has seen a normal life and has emerged through it. Hence despite all the fame, he remains unaffected. His ability to surrender himself to the character is incredible. He’s always open to suggestions, eager to rehearse, and willing to refine his performance. His adaptability makes him such a phenomenal actor,” Pathode said.Sharing a personal anecdote, he mentioned Kaushal’s excitement at meeting his wife during the film’s premiere. “He treated her like a sister-in-law, took pictures with us, and was more excited than I was. That’s his personality—warm, genuine, and full of respect for people around him.”
Watching the Last 40 Minutes in the Theater
Reflecting on the film’s climactic moments, Pathode revealed that he was deeply moved while watching it for the first time. “The torture that Sambhaji Maharaj endured was brutal. It was disturbing to see the extent of his suffering, all for the sake of his people and his faith. Watching it on the big screen, I felt an immense sense of gratitude toward these warriors. Their sacrifices have given us the freedom we enjoy today,” he said.He recalled the overwhelming audience reaction at the premiere. “Everyone was in tears—celebrities like Katrina Kaif, other industry members, and regular viewers. There was a stunned silence in the theater. The emotions were raw because ‘Chhaava’ doesn’t just tell a story; it reminds us of the courage and unshakable spirit of those who fought for Swarajya.
