Rishab Shetty's Bollywood Debut: Bhumi Pednekar Joins 'The Pride of Bharat'

Rishab Shetty, known for his role in *Kantara*, is set to make his Bollywood debut in *The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj*. Joining him is Bhumi Pednekar, who will portray the fearless warrior queen Belwadi Mallamma. The film, directed by Sandeep Singh, boasts a star-studded cast and a significant budget, with production expected to start this year. The first part is slated for release in January next year, promising an epic tale of bravery and valor. Read on to learn more about this exciting project.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 17:28 IST

Rishab Shetty's Entry into Bollywood

Rishab Shetty, renowned for his impactful performance in *Kantara* (2022) and the anticipated *Kantara: Chapter 1* (2025), is gearing up for his debut in Bollywood. He will take on the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the film titled *The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj*.

Bhumi Pednekar Joins the Cast

In a recent announcement, it was revealed that actress Bhumi Pednekar has been added to the film's cast. She will portray the role of Belwadi Mallamma, a courageous warrior queen known for her valor and tenacity.

The Legacy of Belwadi Mallamma

Belwadi Mallamma is celebrated for establishing the first all-female military unit in India. Historical accounts suggest that she bravely fought against Shivaji Maharaj's forces while holding her infant son.

Film Details

Star Cast: Rishab Shetty, Bhumi Pednekar, Shefali Shah, Arjun Rampal, and Vivek Oberoi.

Director and Producer: Sandeep Singh.

Budget: The film is set to be produced in two parts with a budget exceeding ₹500 crore.

Release Date: The first installment is anticipated to hit theaters by January next year.

Crew: The production team includes international action coordinators known for their work on *Game of Thrones* and *The Witcher*.

Production Timeline

The film's music will be composed by National Award-winning artist Amit Trivedi, with lyrics penned by Prasoon Joshi. The screenplay is crafted by Rishi Virmani, and production is slated to begin this year.

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