Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior is a 2020 Indian Hindi-language epic historical action film co-written and directed by Om Raut, starring Ajay Devgn in the titular role, with Saif Ali Khan, Kajol, and Sharad Kelkar in pivotal roles. The film dramatizes the life and legacy of Tanhaji Malusare, a Maratha warrior and military commander in the army of the revered Maratha king Shivaji Maharaj. It revolves around the daring mission that led to the capture of the strategically crucial Kondhana Fort from the Mughal Empire in 1670.

In this detailed review, we will analyze the film’s narrative, direction, performances, production values, music, historical context, audience and critical reception, along with its cultural significance. The review also includes a FAQ section at the end, answering common queries about the film and related history.

Plot Overview: The Heroism Behind Kondhana Fort

Set in mid-17th century India, Tanhaji opens with a young Tanhaji Malusare (Ajay Devgn) being trained by his father, Kaloji Malusare (Jagannath Nivangune), in swordsmanship and warrior ethics. After his father is killed in a Mughal raid on their village Umrat, young Tanhaji vows to serve the motherland with courage and loyalty.

Seventeen years later, Tanhaji has risen as a trusted military commander in Shivaji Maharaj’s army. The rising Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb sends his generals to suppress Shivaji’s expanding Maratha empire. Aurangzeb’s uncle, the Maharaja of Amber, Jai Singh I, forces Shivaji to surrender 23 forts under the Treaty of Purandar, including the Kondhana Fort, which is handed over to the Mughal-appointed Rajput general Udaybhan Rathod (Saif Ali Khan).

Shivaji silently plans to recapture Kondhana without alerting Tanhaji due to the imminent wedding of Tanhaji’s son. However, a conspiracy by a traitorous Maratha noble, Chandraji Pisal, reveals details to Tanhaji, who insists on leading the mission, postponing his son’s wedding. Tanhaji’s campaign becomes a race against time and betrayal, leading to his infiltration of Kondhana, rallying locals against Mughal control, and ultimately the iconic battle to reclaim the fort.

The climax showcases a brutal fight between Tanhaji and Udaybhan, culminating in the latter’s death and Tanhaji’s martyrdom after planting the Maratha flag on Kondhana. The film ends with Shivaji mourning the loss of his loyal warrior, uttering the poignant phrase, “Gad Aala, Pan Sinh Gela” (The fort has been captured, but the lion is lost).

Direction by Om Raut – Vision and Execution

Om Raut, acclaimed for his direction of Lokmanya Ek Yug Purush and Adipurush, delivers an epic spectacle with Tanhaji, emphasizing grandeur, patriotism, and drama. His vision transports viewers to the turbulent 17th century Deccan with lavish sets and immersive battle sequences.

The screenplay balances personal stakes—the relationship between Tanhaji and his wife Savitri (Kajol) and the political intrigue surrounding the fort—with widescale warfare. Though the narrative occasionally dips into melodrama, Raut handles emotional moments with finesse, drawing strong performances from the cast.

The film’s pace suits the epic subject, though at times it borders on formulaic historic Bollywood storytelling. Its clear nationalist tone and stylized battle scenes resonate strongly with audiences craving cinematic pride in Indian history.

Acting: A Powerhouse Ensemble

Ajay Devgn as Tanhaji Malusare

Ajay Devgn stands tall as the stoic and valiant Tanhaji. He brings the right blend of intensity, physicality, and emotional depth to the warrior role. Known for his commitment to action roles, Devgn’s portrayal passes the test of authenticity in action and emotional scenes alike. His nuanced performance shines in sequences showing his paternal love, dedication as a soldier, and ultimate sacrifice.

Saif Ali Khan as Udaybhan Rathod

Saif Ali Khan plays the antagonist Rajput warrior with charisma and menace. His portrayal adds complexity, avoiding the one-dimensional villain stereotype. Khan brings dignity to Udaybhan, making their final confrontation gripping.

Kajol as Savitri Malusare

Kajol marks a strong comeback with the role of Tanhaji’s loyal and worried wife. Her scenes convey the personal cost of war and sacrifice. Her emotional performance anchors the domestic side of the story.

Supporting Cast

Sharad Kelkar as Shivaji Maharaj provides a regal presence. Jagannath Nivangune as Kaloji Malusare, Devdatta Nage as Suryaji Malusare, and Ajinkya Deo in a pivotal political role bolster the narrative with solid performances.

Cinematography and Visual Effects

Sanjay Mishra’s cinematography brings spectacular vistas of forts, battlefields, and royal courts alive, with vibrant color palettes and dynamic framing enhancing the epic scale. The action scenes are tightly choreographed, while the CGI-generated fort siege and war sequences impress with detail.

The visual effects blend seamlessly with practical effects and massive set pieces. War scenes, including infantry skirmishes, cavalry charges, and siege weaponry, look grand and visceral. The dramatic lighting and slow-motion effects heighten emotional beats, especially in pivotal sword fights.

Music and Sound Design

Music by Ajay-Atul complements the film’s grandeur, mixing traditional and modern orchestration. Songs like Teri Mitti became anthems of Indian patriotism, emotionally resonant and widely acclaimed.

The background score elevates battle sequences and intimate moments, effectively blending high octane tension with heartfelt emotion. Sound design enhances the immersive war experience, from clashing swords to war cries.

Historical Context and Accuracy

While Tanhaji takes creative liberties in dramatizing events for cinematic impact, its core story aligns with historical records of Tanhaji Malusare’s bravery and sacrifice. It highlights key aspects of 17th-century Maratha-Mughal conflicts and Shivaji’s expanding empire.

The central battle for Kondhana Fort is depicted with a mix of real historic facts and dramatization. Some characters and subplots, like political betrayals, have been fictionalized or embellished to add narrative tension.

Audience and Critical Reception

Upon its release in January 2020, Tanhaji was met with strong enthusiasm, especially among audiences appreciative of Indian history and epic films.

Audience Praise:

• Grand scale and high production values

• Powerful performances, especially Ajay Devgn and Kajol

• Stirring patriotic themes

• Impressive action choreography and war sequences

Criticism:

• Some critics cited dramatization and saffronisation of history

• Predictable narrative arcs and stereotypical dialogues

• Historical inaccuracies and exaggeration for commercial appeal

Box Office Performance and Legacy

Tanhaji was a commercial success, grossing over ₹350 crore worldwide, and was particularly praised for achieving a balance between entertainment and historical storytelling. It became one of Ajay Devgn’s biggest hits and was lauded for rekindling interest in Indian history through cinema.

The film won several awards for visual effects, music, and performances, cementing its place as a modern Bollywood historical epic. It contributed to the trend of grand-scale period films appealing to patriotic sentiments and inspired future biopics on Indian warriors.

Strengths and Weaknesses

---

Final Thoughts

Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior pays heartfelt homage to one of India’s unsung heroes with a blend of spectacle, emotion, and patriotism. While it glosses over complex history in favor of a stirring narrative, the film succeeds in entertaining and educating audiences about Maratha valor.

Ajay Devgn’s commanding presence, Kajol’s emotionality, rich production values, and thrilling action sequences make Tanhaji a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and Indian epics. Its cultural impact and box office success have revived the appetite for period war films with a patriotic core in Bollywood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior

Q1. Who directed Tanhaji?

The film was directed by Om Raut.

Q2. Who played the lead role of Tanhaji?

Ajay Devgn portrayed Tanhaji Malusare.

Q3. What is the release date of Tanhaji?

The film was released on January 10, 2020.

Q4. Is Tanhaji based on a true story?

Yes, it is inspired by the historical exploits of Tanhaji Malusare, a Maratha warrior under Shivaji Maharaj.

Q5. Who played the antagonist Udaybhan Rathod?

Saif Ali Khan essayed the role of Udaybhan Rathod.

Q6. Was Tanhaji a commercial success?

Yes, the film grossed over ₹350 crore worldwide.

Q7. What is the famous line associated with Tanhaji’s death in the film?

Shivaji Maharaj says, “Gad Aala, Pan Sinh Gela” meaning “The fort has been captured, but the lion is lost.”

Q8. What awards did the film win?

The film received accolades for its visual effects, music, and performances at various Indian film awards.

Q9. Does the movie romanticize history?

Yes, some elements are dramatized for cinematic effect, including political conspiracies and character arcs.

Q10. Who composed the music for Tanhaji?

Ajay-Atul composed the soundtrack and background score for the film.