Raja Shivaji: A Cinematic Tribute to the Maratha Legend
Trailer Release and Overview
The highly anticipated trailer for Raja Shivaji, which is both directed and starred in by Riteish Deshmukh, was released on April 20, 2026. The film is set to hit theaters on May 1, 2026, in both Marathi and Hindi. The trailer presents an exhilarating narrative focused on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's quest for Swarajya. Accompanied by a stirring soundtrack from the renowned duo Ajay-Atul, the trailer showcases a blend of intense emotions and action sequences, reflecting a high production quality. The film boasts a remarkable cast, featuring notable Bollywood stars such as Riteish Deshmukh, Vidya Balan, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Genelia Deshmukh, among others. Let’s delve deeper into the characters and the historical figures they portray.
Character Insights
Riteish Deshmukh as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
In Raja Shivaji, Riteish Deshmukh takes on the pivotal role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a legendary figure in Indian history known for his valor. Not only does he star in the film, but he also directs it. Shivaji Maharaj, a 17th-century warrior king, is celebrated for founding the Maratha Empire in western India.
Genelia Deshmukh as Maharani Saibai
Genelia Deshmukh portrays Maharani Saibai, the first wife of Shivaji Maharaj. Married in 1640, she played a crucial role in supporting Shivaji and was the mother of his successor, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Tragically, she passed away at a young age of 26.
Vidya Balan as Badi Begum
Vidya Balan takes on the character of Badi Begum, a powerful queen of the Bijapur Sultanate and mother to Ali Adil Shah II. Known for her influence in the royal court, she is depicted as a formidable opponent to Shivaji Maharaj.
Abhishek Bachchan as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
Abhishek Bachchan plays Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the eldest son of Shivaji Maharaj. He is recognized as a courageous warrior who defended the Maratha Empire against Aurangzeb and was executed by the Mughals in 1689. Besides being a warrior, he was also a poet and intellectual.
Sanjay Dutt as Afzal Khan
Sanjay Dutt embodies Afzal Khan, a commander from the Adil Shahi dynasty known for his significant role in South India's expansion. His attempts to confront Shivaji Maharaj in 1659 ultimately led to his demise at the Battle of Pratapgarh.
Fardeen Khan as Shah Jahan
Fardeen Khan portrays Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, renowned for his contributions to Mughal architecture, including the Taj Mahal, while also consolidating power through military strategies.
Bhagyashree as Jijabai
Bhagyashree plays Rajmata Jijabai, the mother of Shivaji Maharaj. A significant figure in her own right, she is recognized as a key advisor and planner in Shivaji's vision for Hindavi Swarajya.
Sachin Khedekar as Shahaji Raje Bhosale
Sachin Khedekar portrays Shahaji Raje Bhosale, a notable Maratha nobleman and military leader who was instrumental in the rise of Maratha power and the father of Shivaji Maharaj.
Amol Gupte as Adil Shah
Amol Gupte plays Adil Shah, the seventh Sultan of Bijapur, whose conflicts with Shivaji Maharaj are central to the film's narrative. His son, Ali Adil Shah II, succeeded him during his illness, with Badi Begum managing the sultanate.