Feb 19: Mumbai, India – Raja Shivaji Biopic is finally in the making. In a significant announcement made by Jio Studios and the Mumbai Film Company, actor Riteish Deshmukh is set to spearhead the highly anticipated biopic “Raja Shivaji” as both director and lead actor, marking a pivotal moment in his acting and directorial career.
The biopic, titled “Raja Shivaji,” pays homage to the legendary Maratha warrior king, Shivaji Maharaj, on the occasion of his 394th birth anniversary. Shivaji Maharaj, renowned for founding the Maratha empire during a period of Mughal dominance, remains a revered figure in Indian history for his strategic brilliance and valiant leadership.
Set to be depicted in both Marathi and Hindi languages, the film will trace the remarkable journey of Shivaji Maharaj from his early days as a young warrior to his ascent as the revered Chhatrapati, or monarch. Riteish Deshmukh, known for his versatile performances on screen, will not only portray the titular role but also step into the director’s chair for this ambitious project.
Deshmukh’s foray into direction follows his successful debut with the 2022 blockbuster “Ved,” where he showcased his prowess both in front of and behind the camera. With “Raja Shivaji,” he embarks on a new chapter, aiming to bring to life the awe-inspiring saga of one of India’s greatest historical icons.
Raja Shivaji Biopic : A rich tribute to a legend, icon and eternal flame of inspiration
Speaking about the Raja Shivaji Biopic, Deshmukh expressed his deep admiration for Shivaji Maharaj, stating, “In the annals of history, there emerges a figure who have mere mortal existence – a legend, an icon, an eternal flame of inspiration. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not a mere historical figure; he is an emotion, a timeless saga of valor, and a beacon of hope that has illuminated hearts for over three and a half centuries.”
The Raja Shivaji biopic promises to be a grand cinematic experience, with acclaimed cinematographer Santosh Sivan, known for his work on “Moha,” capturing the visual essence of Shivaji Maharaj’s era. Adding to the allure is the musical score by the renowned Ajay-Atul duo, famed for their compositions in “Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior.”
Jyoti Deshpande, President of Media and Entertainment at Reliance Industries Limited, expressed the studio’s commitment to bringing diverse narratives to audiences worldwide. Deshpande remarked, “‘Raja Shivaji’ embodies this vision, it’s not just a regional tale, it’s a culturally rooted narrative designed to transcend languages and regions.”
Genelia Deshmukh, alongside her husband Riteish, expressed their shared enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing their dedication to weaving a narrative that enriches the tapestry of Indian culture and history.
Production for “Raja Shivaji” Biopic is slated to commence soon, with the film expected to hit the screens in 2025. As anticipation mounts for this epic retelling of Shivaji Maharaj’s legendary exploits, audiences eagerly await to witness Riteish Deshmukh’s dual role as both director and lead actor in what promises to be a cinematic masterpiece.