Riteish Deshmukh is taking on his most ambitious project yet — both as a director and actor — with the upcoming historical epic "Raja Shivaji." 

Backed by Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company, this cinematic tribute to one of India's greatest warriors, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is set to release globally on May 1, 2026, marking Maharashtra Day.

Not only is this a film, but a grand celebration of history, pride, and Swarajya (self-rule). Designed as a multi-language, pan-India experience, the movie will simultaneously release in Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, reaching audiences across India and beyond.

Highlight

  • A Legendary Story Told for a New Generation
  • A Star-Studded Cast and Stellar Crew
  • A Global Vision Rooted in Indian History
  • Why Maharashtra Day?
  • Raja Shivaji in Context: A Hero for All Times 

“Raja Shivaji” will tell the awe-inspiring story of young Shivaji Bhonsale, who laid the foundation of the Maratha Empire during a time when India was largely under the rule of powerful Muslim dynasties, especially the Mughals.

Shivaji’s bold spirit, military strategy, and deep sense of justice made him a hero not just in Maharashtra, but across the country. His story has lived through generations — in folklore, textbooks, and dozens of film and television portrayals — and now gets a big-screen revival with the scale and scope it deserves.

Riteish Deshmukh, known for his versatility in both Hindi and Marathi cinema, steps into Shivaji’s role, describing it as “an honor and a great responsibility.” For him, this isn’t just a movie — it’s an emotional journey, deeply rooted in cultural identity and reverence.

“Raja Shivaji” boasts an ensemble cast that brings together the best of Hindi and Marathi cinema:

  • Sanjay Dutt

  • Abhishek Bachchan

  • Mahesh Manjrekar

  • Sachin Khedekar

  • Bhagyashree

  • Fardeen Khan

  • Jitendra Joshi

  • Amole Gupte

Genelia Deshmukh, who also serves as producer through the Mumbai Film Company, plays a key role in the film and has been actively involved in the creative and production process. She called the film “a labor of love” and emphasized the depth of research and passion that went into making it.

Behind the scenes, some of India’s most celebrated talents are contributing to the project:

  • Music: By the powerhouse duo Ajay–Atul, known for crafting rich, cinematic scores that match the grandeur of historical dramas.

  • Cinematography: Handled by the legendary Santosh Sivan, making his Marathi cinema debut.

Principal photography is currently in full swing at various historic and scenic locations in Mumbai and Wai, Maharashtra, with more scheduled over the next year.

Jyoti Deshpande, President of Jio Studios, described “Raja Shivaji” as “more than just a film — it's a celebration of Swarajya.” According to her, the project’s scale and storytelling are designed to take the heroic legacy of Shivaji Maharaj to a global stage, where his life and leadership can inspire a wider audience.

“Only someone with deep respect and understanding of Shivaji’s story could have led this vision,” she said of Riteish and Genelia’s work. “This is one of the most ambitious films we’ve ever backed.”

The choice of May 1, 2026, as the release date is significant. Maharashtra Day commemorates the formation of the state of Maharashtra in 1960 — the very land where Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy continues to be deeply embedded in the cultural and historical identity of its people.

By releasing the film on this symbolic day, the creators are aligning Shivaji’s enduring spirit of independence with the state’s modern-day pride, making the launch both emotionally and historically powerful.

Shivaji (1630–1680) is widely regarded as one of the most iconic Hindu warrior kings in Indian history. His resistance against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, his establishment of an autonomous Maratha state, and his coronation as Chhatrapati are legendary moments in India’s pre-colonial past.

During the Indian freedom movement, his name became a rallying point for nationalist pride, especially among Hindu communities. Today, his story remains just as relevant, symbolizing valor, leadership, and resistance against tyranny.

The film arrives at a time when India is witnessing a resurgence in historical cinema, with recent blockbusters like "Chhaava" and upcoming projects like “The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj” also in the works. “Raja Shivaji,” however, aims to set a new standard by combining massive production value, emotional storytelling, and universal appeal.


Final Thoughts

With multi-language accessibility, a cast full of powerhouses, and a subject as rich and inspiring as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, “Raja Shivaji” has all the ingredients of a modern epic. It’s not just another historical film — it’s a cultural statement, a tribute to one of India’s greatest sons, and a cinematic event years in the making.

As May 1, 2026 approaches, fans of Indian history, cinema, and culture will be waiting eagerly for this grand portrayal of a king whose legacy still inspires millions.