Actor and filmmaker Riteish Deshmukh has officially announced the release date of his much-awaited historical epic, Raja Shivaji, a cinematic tribute to the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film is slated for a grand worldwide release on May 1, 2026, coinciding with Maharashtra Day, and will release in six languages — Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.
Taking to social media, Deshmukh unveiled the film’s powerful poster and described the project as both an emotional journey and a great responsibility. “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not merely a historical icon — he is an emotion deeply rooted in every Maharashtrian’s heart,” said Deshmukh. “To bring a chapter of his extraordinary life to the screen is a privilege I hold close.”
Riteish not only directs the film but also plays the titular role of Raja Shivaji, portraying the rise of the young warrior who would go on to defy mighty empires and lead a revolution that laid the foundation for Swarajya — self-rule. 
The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Genelia Deshmukh, who also serves as the film’s producer under the Mumbai Film Company banner.
Genelia called the film a “labour of love,” sharing that the script is rooted in years of research and reverence. “Raja Shivaji is our heartfelt homage to one of India’s greatest visionaries. We are honoured to bring this story to audiences across India and around the world,” she said.
Backing the project is Jio Studios, with Jyoti Deshpande, President of Media & Content Business at Reliance Industries, stating that the film is not just a cinematic venture but a celebration of India’s fight for sovereignty. “Only someone who carries the spirit of Shivaji Maharaj in his heart could bring this story to life, and Riteish has done so with authenticity and passion,” she remarked.
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Currently being filmed in Mumbai and Wai, Maharashtra, Raja Shivaji promises to be a visual and emotional spectacle — an epic narrative of courage, resistance, and the enduring power of leadership.
With its multilingual release and a strong message of cultural pride, Raja Shivaji is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious and awaited historical dramas in Indian cinema.
