Riteish Deshmukh's Epic Film 'Raja Shivaji' Set to Captivate Audiences This May!

Riteish Deshmukh's 'Raja Shivaji' is set to hit theaters on May 1, coinciding with Maharashtra Day. This historical drama, exploring the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, will be available in both Marathi and Hindi, with the latter being slightly shorter. Featuring a star-studded cast, including Riteish himself, Sanjay Dutt, and Abhishek Bachchan, the film is expected to be one of the most significant releases of 2026. With a budget of around Rs 100 crore, 'Raja Shivaji' promises to be a grand cinematic experience tailored for diverse audiences.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 30, 2026, 01:03 IST

A Grand Cinematic Journey Awaits

Riteish Deshmukh's much-anticipated film, 'Raja Shivaji', is scheduled for release on May 1 across Indian theaters. This historical drama delves into the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and will be available in both Marathi and Hindi languages. Interestingly, the Hindi version will be shorter than the Marathi one by several minutes. The film's launch coincides with Maharashtra Day, adding a special significance to its premiere. 'Raja Shivaji' is being hailed as a grand period piece and is expected to be the most expensive Marathi film ever, with a budget estimated at around Rs 100 crore.

In a unique approach, the film will be released in two versions, each with different runtimes. The Marathi edition received its censor certificate on April 24, boasting a runtime of 195.05 minutes (3 hours, 15 minutes, and 5 seconds), offering a more extended experience for Marathi viewers. Conversely, the Hindi version has been edited down by 8 minutes, resulting in a more succinct narrative for audiences who prefer Hindi. This version was approved by the Central Board of Film Certification on April 28, carrying a U/A 16+ rating, with both versions set to debut simultaneously.

Riteish Deshmukh not only stars in the film but also directs it, taking on the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film features a personal touch, as Riteish's son, Rahyl Deshmukh, plays the younger version of Shivaji, highlighting significant moments in the character's life. The cast includes prominent figures from both Hindi and Marathi cinema, such as Sanjay Dutt as Afzal Khan, Abhishek Bachchan as Sambhaji, and Fardeen Khan as Aurangzeb. Genelia Deshmukh portrays Saibai, while Bhagyashree plays Jijabai, with Vidya Balan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Jitendra Joshi, and Amole Gupte also part of the ensemble. Salman Khan is set to make a cameo appearance.

The varying runtimes reflect a strategic decision for 'Raja Shivaji', with Riteish Deshmukh tailoring the pacing to suit different language audiences. The Hindi version aims for a tighter narrative, while the Marathi edition allows for a more detailed storytelling approach, anticipating a stronger interest from Marathi-speaking viewers. These editorial distinctions are also visible in the promotional content, with the Marathi trailer lasting 3 minutes and 5 seconds to evoke context and emotion, while the Hindi promo is shorter at 2 minutes and 59 seconds, aligning with the more concise theatrical version.

With its impressive budget, star-studded cast, and dual-language release, 'Raja Shivaji' is set to be one of the most significant Indian film releases of 2026, drawing considerable attention from audiences nationwide.