The highly anticipated first look poster for the upcoming historical film Raja Shivaji was revealed on Thursday, coinciding with Shiv Jayanti, which celebrates the birth of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The announcement included essential details regarding the film’s release date and star cast. In the poster, director and actor Riteish Deshmukh is depicted in authentic period armor, symbolizing the Maratha warrior-king on a battlefield. He is shown wielding a sword while holding a saffron flag, emphasizing the narrative’s focus on Shivaji’s quest for Swarajya. The poster’s caption articulated the film’s thematic essence, portraying a young warrior’s endeavor to reshape history and bring honor to his land.
Release Date and Production Details
Accompanying the poster, the filmmakers confirmed that Raja Shivaji is slated for release on May 1, 2026. The announcement bore a message of pride, reflecting the film’s cultural significance. Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company are collaborating on this project, with Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh serving as producers. The music for the film has been composed by the renowned duo Ajay-Atul, who have previously delivered successful soundtracks for various films.
Ensemble Cast Features Notable Actors
The first look poster also highlighted the film’s ensemble cast, which includes prominent names such as Sanjay Dutt, Vidya Balan, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Fardeen Khan, and Bhagyashree. The diversity in casting reflects the filmmakers’ commitment to showcasing a multifaceted representation of characters that resonates with the historical narrative centered around Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Riteish Deshmukh’s Directorial Return
Riteish Deshmukh is returning to direction with Raja Shivaji, following his successful debut with the film Ved in 2022. Ved was a significant hit, emerging as the highest-grossing Marathi film of that year and securing its place as one of the top three highest-grossing Marathi films to date. Deshmukh’s directorial ventures have been well-received, and expectations are high for his latest project.
Upcoming Projects and Current Engagements
In addition to Raja Shivaji, Riteish Deshmukh has been busy with other projects. He recently appeared in the films Housefull 5 and Mastiii 4, both slated for release in 2025. Furthermore, he is set to feature in Dhamaal 4, which is also slated for this year. In addition to his film commitments, Deshmukh is currently hosting Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6, showcasing his diverse talents within the entertainment industry.
