Raja Shivaji Trailer: Riteish Deshmukh’s Dream Project on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Set for May 1 Release

The trailer of Raja Shivaji is now out, bringing the first full look at a film that has been in discussion for years. Produced by Genelia Deshmukh and Jyoti Deshpande, and backed by Jio Studios, the film is based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, one of the most respected rulers in Indian history and a symbol of pride for Maharashtra. 

At the launch event, Riteish Deshmukh became emotional while speaking about the project and shared how this dream began years ago.

A Story Years in the Making

The idea of a film on Shivaji Maharaj linked to Riteish Deshmukh first surfaced in 2015. The project went through multiple changes, scripting, creative modifications, delays, and the impact of the pandemic.

Different filmmakers were attached to the project at different times. In 2024, Riteish Deshmukh officially confirmed that he would direct the film himself and move the vision forward under Mumbai Film Company.

At the trailer event, Riteish spoke about dreaming of this project in 2016. He also mentioned the hard work that continued from 2023 onwards to finally bring the film to completion. He thanked Genelia Deshmukh for standing by the project and also acknowledged Sanjay Dutt’s support.

Trailer Shows Scale, History and Conflict

The trailer presents a historical action drama built around the rise of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It includes war sequences, palace settings, political conflict, emotional moments, and dialogues connected to leadership and resistance.

The film appears to focus on the phase where Shivaji Maharaj built his identity as a ruler and laid the foundation of the Maratha Empire. The visuals also hint at major confrontations that shaped that period of history.

Strong Ensemble Cast

Raja Shivaji brings together a wide cast from Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Riteish Deshmukh plays Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the lead role. Genelia Deshmukh appears as Saibai. Sanjay Dutt plays Afzal Khan. Abhishek Bachchan is seen as Sambhaji Shahaji Bhosale.

The film also features Boman Irani, Mahesh Manjrekar as Lakhuji Jadhav, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree as Jijabai, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Vidya Balan in key roles.

Salman Khan also appears in a special role as Jiva Mahala, remembered in history as the warrior who protected Shivaji Maharaj during a major attack.

Long Production Journey

The film went on floors in 2025 and was shot across locations including Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar, Wai, Satara, and surrounding regions. Large sets were created to recreate forts and royal spaces linked to that era.

The production reportedly took around 100 days, with different schedules covering battle scenes, coronation moments, personal chapters, and final portions.

For Riteish Deshmukh, this project also marks an important personal chapter as actor, producer, and director.

Release Date

Raja Shivaji will release worldwide on 1 May 2026 in Marathi and Hindi.