Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company have released the trailer of ‘Raja Shivaji’, a historical blockbuster based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The film is scheduled for worldwide release in Marathi and Hindi on May 1st.
“Raja Shivaji” chronicles the rise of the young Shivaji Bhonsale, who founded the Maratha kingdom during a turbulent period in India’s history and challenged the power of the existing empire to lay the foundations of “swaraja” (self-government).
Riteish Deshmukh is the director, star, writer and producer of the project, which follows the rise of a young warrior into one of India’s most revered historical figures. The film focuses on the leader’s strategic acumen and courage, based on the little-known story of his life.
The trailer launch event in Mumbai was attended by Jyoti Deshpande, Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Jitendra Joshi, Genelia Deshmukh and music composer Ajay Atul. The film’s earlier released teaser and title anthem ‘Chhatrapati’ have already received a great response from the audience.
“For 10 years, I have been trying to make Raja Shivaji. When it finally starts in 2023, I feel like even Maharajji will say, ‘Well, your time has come,'” Deshmukh said at the launch. “Because dreams alone don’t make things happen. To make a dream a reality, you need support. Jio Studios and Jyoti Deshpande supported us and showed their courage. I am very grateful to them.” The director and star described the film as a “small offering at the feet of Maharaj”.
“‘Raja Shivaji’ is more than just a film, it is a celebration of India’s spirit, identity and rich history,” said Jyoti Deshpande, President, Jio Studios. Jio Studios had previously backed the hugely successful ‘Dhurandhar’ diptych. “At Jio Studios, we have always strived to champion stories that are rooted in India but have universal resonance. The phenomenal success of the Dhurandhar duology reaffirms that audiences are deeply connected to powerful homegrown stories told with conviction and scale. In Virji, we continue that journey and bring to life the story of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a towering icon of courage, vision and Hindutva. Swarajya’s great achievements continue to inspire generations.”
“We wanted to showcase the human story behind the legend and his strategic genius and courage. Riteish and his team have crafted a story that goes beyond spectacle to explore the origins of a leader, his values and the forces that shaped him,” continued Deshpande. “Anchored by authenticity, scale, a great ensemble cast and soul-stirring music, ‘Raja Shivaji’ reflects our commitment to bringing the grand and heartfelt stories of India to audiences around the world. It is more than just a cinematic experience, it is a tribute to India’s pride, bringing to life the pages of our history books for audiences across generations.”
Producer and cast member Genelia Deshmukh said, “Today I am very emotional. I am so grateful to the entire team from production to design and everyone who came together to make this vision a reality.” “‘Raja Shivaji’ is more than just a film, it is our heartfelt tribute to the life, work and everything he stood for of a legend. This is not just a project, it is both a responsibility and a blessing to be able to realize this dream.”
The ensemble cast includes Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Boman Irani, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amol Gupte, Genelia Deshmukh and Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh.
The film features music by Ajay Atul and cinematography by Santosh Sivan. Jio Studios has announced that it will be produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh and produced by Mumbai Film Company.
The May 1st release date coincides with Maharashtra Day, a public holiday commemorating the founding of the western Indian state of Maharashtra, the birthplace of the titular ruler.
Watch the trailer here:
