Raja Shivaji Movie Review and Release Live Updates: Riteish Deshmukh starrer off to a record start at box office; eyes Rs 10 crore debut

‘Raja Shivaji’ brings to life the extraordinary legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, one of India’s greatest warrior kings. Directed by Riteish Deshmukh, who also wrote, produced, and stars as Shivaji, the film is an ambitious historical drama. The makers have already built momentum with the release of the film’s anthem ‘Chhatrapati’ and the track ‘Jai Shivrai’. Renowned music composers Ajay–Atul shared their vision behind the music, stating that the song carries emotion, truth, and reverence, aiming to evoke deep feelings and lasting memories. Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai praised the project, calling it a film made passionately and with full nationalistic energies. The trailer was described as 'so rocking'. The film blends visual scale with an emotional narrative rooted in the birth of Swarajya, focusing on a son who took a sacred vow and altered the course of history. Early glimpses suggest a powerful mix of intensity, emotion, and heroism. The ensemble cast includes Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Boman Irani, Amol Gupte, and Genelia Deshmukh. The film is set for a worldwide theatrical release on May 1, 2026, in Marathi, Hindi, and Telugu.