“Our King. Our Pride. Our Legacy.” With these powerful words, Riteish Deshmukh set social media ablaze as he unveiled the first poster of his ambitious directorial debut, Raja Shivaji. Released on the auspicious occasion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, the announcement instantly sparked excitement among fans and history lovers alike. Backed by Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company, the epic biopic is slated for a grand worldwide theatrical release on 1 May 2026.
The first-look poster is nothing short of majestic. Riteish, who not only directs but also steps into the towering role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is seen in full Maratha warrior glory—armored, battle-ready, sword in hand, with saffron flags rising fiercely behind him. The imagery powerfully symbolizes the spirit of Hindavi Swarajya and Shivaji Maharaj’s legendary resistance against Mughal rule. The intensity in Riteish’s gaze and the dramatic scale of the visual hint at a film mounted on a truly epic canvas.
What makes Raja Shivaji even more special is that it marks Riteish Deshmukh’s directorial debut. Known for his versatility as an actor, Riteish now takes on the mammoth responsibility of bringing one of India’s most revered historical icons to life. Presented by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under Mumbai Film Company, the project promises a blend of grandeur, authenticity, and emotional depth.
Adding to the cinematic weight of the film is an extraordinary creative team. The music is composed by the powerhouse duo Ajay-Atul, whose scores are known to evoke goosebumps and patriotism in equal measure. Behind the lens is the legendary cinematographer Santosh Sivan, ensuring that the visual storytelling matches the scale and significance of Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy. The film will be released as a bilingual in Hindi and Marathi, widening its reach across audiences.
With its first poster alone, Raja Shivaji has managed to ignite anticipation nationwide. If the roaring visual is any indication, audiences can expect a grand, emotionally charged tribute to one of India’s greatest warriors. As the countdown to 1 May 2026 begins, one thing is clear—this is not just a film announcement, it’s the arrival of a legacy on the big screen.