Raja Shivaji: Riteish Deshmukh’s Epic Film Set for Global Release in Multiple Languages!

by

On Maharashtra Day in the year 2026, India’s Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company announced their intention to launch the global debut of the historical action epic “Raja Shivaji” on May 1 of that same year.

The movie directed by Riteish Deshmukh (who also plays the lead character) will be released simultaneously in six Indian languages – Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. This way, the tale of one of India’s greatest warriors can reach both local and global viewers alike.

The story “Raja Shivaji” details the ascent of Shivaji Bhonsale, a young man who defied powerful empires to establish the Maratha kingdom and pave the way for self-governance (Swarajya) in a tumultuous era of Indian history.

Or simply:

“Raja Shivaji” narrates the rise of Shivaji Bhonsale, who dared to defy strong empires and create the Maratha kingdom, setting the stage for self-rule (Swarajya) during a chaotic period in Indian history.

As a film enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that this upcoming project boasts an impressive ensemble of talent from both Hindi and Marathi cinematic worlds. Joining forces are industry veterans like Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, and Amole Gupte. To top it off, Genelia Deshmukh, who also serves as producer under the Mumbai Film Company banner, completes our star-studded roster.

As a devoted admirer, I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting journey! From behind the scenes, I witness the esteemed music directors Ajay-Atul masterfully shaping the melodies, while the venerable Santosh Sivan graces Marathi cinema with his cinematographic debut. The principal photography is currently unfolding, capturing the essence of Mumbai and Wai, Maharashtra across various locations.

Jyoti Deshpande, president of Jio Studios, stated that ‘Raja Shivaji’ transcends being just a movie; it’s a tribute to Swarajya and its significance for every Indian. Riteish, with Genelia, has beautifully embodied the story in a heartfelt and meaningful way. Our aim is to share the extraordinary life of Shivaji Maharaj, one of India’s greatest heroes, globally. With an exceptional cast from various fields, this project represents one of our most daring endeavors.

Born between 1630 and 1680, Shivaji, a follower of the Hindu faith, established the Maratha empire amidst India’s dominance by Muslim rulers. He expanded his territories through a blend of tactical military maneuvers and sharp strategic thinking. In an era when Emperor Aurangzeb was oppressing Hindus, Shivaji gained their support and was ultimately crowned as the Chhatrapati (the monarch). During India’s struggle for independence, Shivaji was revered as a symbol of Hindu nationalism and continues to be held in high regard today.

As a cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but feel privileged and burdened by the opportunity to contribute a piece of the captivating tale of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a figure who transcends history and resides in the hearts of countless millions not just as a historical entity, but as an enduring emotion.

The widespread admiration for Shivaji is evident through the numerous times his life and associates’ stories have been portrayed in Indian cinema and television over 60 instances, dating back to “Sinhagad” (1923). Currently, Sandeep Singh’s historical drama, “The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,” featuring Rishab Shetty as Shivaji, is in production with a 2027 release planned. Moreover, “Chhaava” has been India’s most successful film of 2025 to date, starring Vicky Kaushal as the legendary Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was Shivaji’s son.

I find myself particularly excited about the strategic timing of the Maharashtra Day release, as this holiday carries immense significance. It marks the anniversary of a state where Shivaji’s enduring legacy continues to cast a deep influence.

As a cinema enthusiast, I’d put it like this: “This movie has been a deeply personal project for me – a journey meticulously crafted over years through contemplation, investigation, and admiration. It’s my tribute to a historical icon who remains an endless source of inspiration for countless generations.

The film is being jointly produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh.


Read More

2025-05-21 12:16