The much-anticipated historical epic Raja Shivaji, directed by Riteish Deshmukh, is set to hit the big screen on May 1, 2026, coinciding with Maharashtra Day. The film will be released in Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, reflecting its pan-Indian vision.
Featuring a powerful ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Genelia Deshmukh, Mahesh Manjrekar, Fardeen Khan, and Bhagyashree, Raja Shivaji promises to be a cinematic tribute to the legendary warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Riteish, who also plays the titular role, shared his passion for the project, saying, “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not just a historical figure — he is an emotion that lives in the hearts of millions. Telling even a part of his extraordinary story is an honour and a great responsibility.”
The film is being produced by Jio Studios, with Jyoti Deshpande, President of Jio Studios, describing the film as “a celebration of Swarajya and what it means to every Indian.” She emphasized that the story could only be authentically told by someone deeply connected to the legacy — “Riteish and Genelia have brought this vision to life with passion and purpose.”
On the creative front, the film brings together some of the biggest names in Indian cinema. Ajay-Atul, known for their soaring musical scores, are composing the soundtrack, while Santosh Sivan, one of the industry’s most revered cinematographers, is crafting the film’s visual narrative. Currently, the movie is in production across Mumbai and Wai, Maharashtra.
The film’s first motion poster was unveiled on May 21, offering a powerful glimpse into the grandeur and emotional core of the story.
Genelia Deshmukh, who plays a key role and is also creatively involved, expressed her pride in the project: “This film has been a labour of love — shaped by years of thought, research, and reverence. It’s our humble attempt to honour history and share Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy with audiences across the country and beyond.”
With an ambitious vision, a stellar cast, and a team of industry veterans backing it, Raja Shivaji is poised to be one of the most awaited films of 2026, aiming to bring the spirit of India’s great warrior king to a global audience.