Riteish Deshmukh's 'Raja Shivaji' First Look Poster Unveiled on Shiv Jayanti 2026
One of the most highly anticipated cinematic releases of 2026, the pan-India epic 'Raja Shivaji' has officially unveiled its first poster, marking the auspicious occasion of Shiv Jayanti. The film stars Riteish Deshmukh in the monumental role of the legendary Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, bringing his valiant story to the big screen with grandeur and intensity.
Genelia Deshmukh Shares Emotional Poster Reveal
Genelia Deshmukh amplified the excitement by sharing the striking first-look poster on her Instagram account, accompanied by heartfelt messages in both Marathi and English. In her post, she eloquently described Shivaji Maharaj as "Our King, Our Pride, Our Legacy," emphasizing the global significance of his legacy and the film's ambitious vision.
She reflected on how a true son of the soil took a pledge for Swarajya (self-rule) and rose as a young warrior who irrevocably changed the course of history. Genelia assured audiences that 'Raja Shivaji' will deliver a grand cinematic experience unlike anything seen before, promising to captivate viewers across the nation.
Fans React with Overwhelming Excitement
As soon as Genelia shared the poster, fans flooded the comment section with enthusiastic responses, showcasing their eager anticipation for the film. Reactions included:
- "Can't wait to see this masterpiece!"
- "Looking forward to this blockbuster release."
- "So much excited for Riteish as Shivaji Maharaj."
- "South cinema has had its moment, now it's time for Marathi cinema to shine."
The overwhelming positive feedback highlights the deep cultural resonance and widespread appeal of this historical narrative.
Star-Studded Cast and Production Details
'Raja Shivaji' is not just a film; it's a cinematic event featuring an ensemble cast of notable actors. Directed by Riteish Deshmukh himself, the movie has been filmed in both Marathi and Hindi, with plans for release in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada to ensure a pan-India reach.
The impressive star cast includes:
- Sanjay Dutt
- Abhishek Bachchan
- Mahesh Manjrekar
- Fardeen Khan
- Sachin Khedekar
- Bhagyashree Patwardhan
- Jitendra Joshi
- Salman Khan
- Siddharth Shinde
- Vidya Balan
- Amol Gupte
- Kapil Honrao
- Genelia Deshmukh
Each actor brings their unique talent to pivotal roles, enhancing the film's depth and appeal.
Salman Khan's Special Cameo Role
Adding to the excitement, reports confirm that Salman Khan will make a special cameo appearance in 'Raja Shivaji'. He is set to portray the brave warrior Jiva Mahala, renowned for saving Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during the historic Battle of Pratapgarh against Afzal Khan. This cameo is expected to be a highlight, drawing additional attention from fans across the country.
Behind the Scenes: Music and Cinematography
The film's production boasts top-tier talent behind the camera as well. The music is composed by the acclaimed duo Ajay-Atul, known for their soul-stirring scores, while cinematography is handled by the renowned Santosh Sivan. Interestingly, this project marks Sivan's first foray into Marathi cinema, promising visually stunning and culturally authentic visuals that will bring the era to life.
Release Date and Significance
'Raja Shivaji' is scheduled for a grand release on May 1, 2026, a date that holds dual significance. It coincides with Maharashtra Day, celebrating the state's rich heritage, and Labour Day, adding a layer of cultural and historical relevance. This strategic timing underscores the film's aim to honor and propagate the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on a national scale.
With its blend of historical grandeur, stellar cast, and pan-India appeal, 'Raja Shivaji' is poised to be a landmark in Indian cinema, eagerly awaited by audiences and critics alike.
