The first look poster for the historical epic Raja Shivaji, directed by actor Riteish Deshmukh, was released on Thursday to commemorate Shiv Jayanti. It also marked the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. With the release, the makers also confirmed the release date and the complete star cast.
In the poster, Riteish is seen fully clad in period-accurate armour and portraying the Maratha warrior-king on a battlefield. He is seen standing holding a sword and a saffron flag, which signals the film’s focus on Shivaji’s struggle for Swarajya.
The caption accompanying the poster read, “When darkness longed for light, a flame rose high. When history stood still, a young warrior chose to rewrite it. When a land yearned for honour, a son took an oath, and Swarajya was born.(sic)”
“On the sacred occasion of Shiv Jayanti, celebrating the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company unveil the first poster of #RajaShivaji Our King. Our Pride. Our Legacy. Director Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh brings to life the story of our Raja, in a cinematic spectacle never witnessed before! (sic),” it continued.
Release date confirmed
The release date was further included in the announcement. “#RajaShivaji In cinemas from 1 May 2026. Jai Shivrai! (sic),” it added. The film has been produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh, whereas the music has been given by Ajay-Atul.
Star cast includes Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan
The poster also confirmed the film’s ensemble cast, with tags including Sanjay Dutt, Vidya Balan, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Fardeen Khan, and Bhagyashree.
Riteish returns to direction after Ved
Riteish, who directed and wrote the 2022 film Ved, returns to helm Raja Shivaji. His previous directorial project was both critically and commercially successful. It became the highest-grossing Marathi film of that year and the third highest-grossing Marathi film of all time.
The actor’s other projects
Last seen in 2025 films Housefull 5 and Mastiii 4, the actor also has Dhamaal 4 lined up this year. He is also hosting Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6.
