Riteish Deshmukh’s Raja Shivaji Creates History With ₹11 Crore Day One Collection

Released on May 1, 2026, Raja Shivaji is a historical drama based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. With a production budget of ₹100 crore, it is the most expensive Marathi film ever made. The film stars Riteish Deshmukh as Shivaji and Genelia Deshmukh as Saibai, supported by an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, and Vidya Balan.

Box Office Performance

On its opening day, Raja Shivaji collected ₹11.35 crore net across India, with gross collections reaching ₹13.51 crore. The Marathi version contributed ₹8 crore net with strong occupancy of 68%, while the Hindi version earned ₹3.35 crore net with 16% occupancy. This performance surpassed the opening of Kangana Ranaut’s Manikarnika (₹8.75 crore) and set a new benchmark for Marathi cinema. 

Audience Response

Advance bookings were record-breaking, with over ₹5 crore gross sales before release. The Marathi audience showed overwhelming support, particularly in Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik, where occupancy exceeded 70%. Reviews praised Riteish’s performance and the film’s grandeur, though some critics noted pacing issues.

Industry Impact

The film’s success signals a turning point for Marathi cinema, proving that large-scale productions can achieve nationwide box office impact. It also highlights the growing appetite for regional historical dramas, positioning Raja Shivaji alongside hits like Tanhaji and Chhaava.

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Raja Shivaji collects ₹11.35 crore net on Day 1

•⁠  ⁠Biggest Marathi opener ever, surpassing Manikarnika  

•⁠  ⁠Marathi version dominates with ₹8 crore net, 68% occupancy

•⁠  ⁠Hindi version contributes ₹3.35 crore net, 16% occupancy

•⁠  ⁠Advance bookings crossed ₹5 crore gross before release

•⁠  ⁠Most expensive Marathi film ever at ₹100 crore budget

Sources: Hindustan Times, Sacnilk, Mint