A video of actor Vicky Kaushal is circulating widely on social media, capturing a moment of respect and humility that has resonated with many. The actor was recently at Mumbai Airport when a fan honored him with a shawl and a statue of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.

In the now-viral video, Vicky Kaushal is seen accepting the shawl and the statue with evident respect. As the fan presented him with the murti (statue) of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Kaushal immediately removed his shoes, a gesture interpreted as a sign of deep reverence for the Maratha warrior king. This action has garnered widespread praise from netizens, who have lauded the actor for his humility and respect for cultural and historical figures.

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was a revered historical figure known for his bravery, sacrifice, and commitment to his kingdom. Sambhaji Maharaj was the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. He succeeded his father as the ruler and continued the struggle against the Mughal Empire. Sambhaji Maharaj is highly regarded for his military skills and his role in defending his kingdom against external forces.

Vicky Kaushal's gesture comes at a time when he is preparing for the release of his film "Chhaava", where he plays the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The film, directed by Laxman Utekar, is a historical epic that captures the heroism, struggles, and legacy of the Maratha warrior. "Chhaava" faced controversy when its trailer was released, specifically regarding a dance sequence featuring Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Following objections from historians and public outcry, the scene was removed from the film. Kaushal explained that the scene was initially intended to promote the culture globally, but the makers decided to remove it out of respect for the sentiments of Sambhaji Maharaj's followers.

Kaushal's upcoming projects include "Love & War," directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, where he will star alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. He is also slated to appear in "Mahavatar," directed by Amar Kaushik, which has been reportedly pushed to 2027 due to scheduling conflicts.

The act of removing shoes as a sign of respect is a common practice in many cultures, particularly in India. It is often done before entering a religious place, or when interacting with a revered object or person. This gesture symbolizes humility and a recognition of the sacredness or importance of what one is approaching. Other actors, like Salman Khan, have also been seen removing their shoes as a sign of respect for figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Balasaheb Thackeray. Statues of historical figures are often treated with reverence, and garlanding or unveiling them is considered a mark of respect.