Ten Years In The Making: Riteish Deshmukh’s Raja Shivaji Becomes Bigger And Better

After years of delays and challenges, Raja Shivaji has hit theatres in both Marathi and Hindi. Riteish Deshmukh, who plays the titular role and directs the film, said the long journey allowed him to refine the vision, ensuring a cinematic tribute worthy of the Maratha warrior king.

Production Journey

The film was first announced in 2016 but faced multiple hurdles, including budgetary constraints and scripting challenges. Officially revived in 2024, it was shot across Maharashtra’s historic locations and mounted on a budget of ₹75–100 crore, making it the most expensive Marathi film ever produced.

Cast And Crew

Alongside Riteish Deshmukh, the film features Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Genelia Deshmukh, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, and Boman Irani. Cinematography is by Santosh Sivan, with music composed by Ajay-Atul, adding grandeur to the narrative.

Reception And Impact

Released on Maharashtra Day, Raja Shivaji opened strongly, especially in Maharashtra, with advance bookings crossing ₹1 crore. Critics praised its scale, emotional depth, and music, though some noted uneven pacing. Deshmukh emphasized that the decade-long effort was essential to achieve authenticity and scale.

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Raja Shivaji first announced in 2016, released May 1, 2026

•⁠  ⁠Directed and headlined by Riteish Deshmukh as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

•⁠  ⁠Produced by Genelia Deshmukh and Jio Studios, budget ₹75–100 crore

•⁠  ⁠Features ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan

•⁠  ⁠Most expensive Marathi film ever, shot across Maharashtra’s historic sites

Sources: The Indian Express, Wikipedia, IMDb, Hindustan Times