Mumbai, March 31 (NationPress) On Tuesday, the much-anticipated teaser for the Marathi film ‘Raja Shivaji’ was released, coinciding with the unveiling of ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’. This film narrates the epic saga of one of history's most revered warrior kings. Riteish Deshmukh takes center stage as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a role he has passionately directed as well.

At its essence lies a compelling tale of vision, bravery, and determination, detailing the journey of a son who made a sacred pledge that altered the annals of history. The teaser provides a captivating preview of this moving expedition, interweaving intensity, emotion, and valor that transcends generations.

This cinematic endeavor vividly portrays the remarkable heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, achieving a scale seldom witnessed in Marathi films and presenting a truly pan-India extravaganza. The film merges breathtaking visuals with a deeply emotional and motivating storyline grounded in the foundation of Swarajya.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the visionary founder of the Maratha Empire in western India, forged an independent kingdom by challenging the Deccan Sultanates and the Mughal Empire. In 1663, he executed a successful raid on Pune against Mughal general Shaista Khan, significantly diminishing Mughal dominance in the area. The following year, he orchestrated the first raid on Surat, a crucial Mughal port, disrupting their trade network.

In 1666, after being captured by Aurangzeb in Agra, he managed a daring escape and returned to the Deccan to restore his strength. In 1674, he was ceremonially crowned as Chhatrapati at Raigad, thus founding a sovereign Maratha state. His later military endeavors included campaigns in southern Karnataka, broadening his territorial influence. Notably, he established a robust navy to safeguard coastal territories and fortified numerous hill forts. Maharaj passed away in 1680, leaving a well-organized administration and a formidable military structure that consistently opposed Mughal rule.

Enhancing the narrative is a stellar ensemble cast featuring renowned personalities from both Hindi and Marathi cinema. Alongside Deshmukh, the film includes acclaimed actors such as Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Boman Irani, Amol Gupte, and Genelia Deshmukh.

Crafted on an expansive cinematic scale, this film promises thrilling action sequences, intricate world-building, and exceptional technical prowess. With music by the acclaimed duo Ajay–Atul and breathtaking cinematography by internationally lauded Santosh Sivan, Raja Shivaji is poised to offer a visual feast paired with deep emotional impact.

Produced by Jio Studios and spearheaded by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under the Mumbai Film Company banner, ‘Raja Shivaji’ is set for a worldwide theatrical release on May 1, 2026, in Marathi, Hindi, and Telugu.