The grand historical drama Raja Shivaji has stormed the box office, setting a brand-new benchmark for Marathi cinema. With a smashing opening day collection of ₹12.40 crore nett across India, the film has officially recorded the biggest opening ever for a Marathi film. Released on May 1, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect, as the Maharashtra Day holiday significantly boosted footfall in theatres.
The Marathi version of the film led the charge, drawing massive crowds and running to packed houses across key circuits in Maharashtra. From morning shows to evening screenings, the film witnessed steady growth, indicating strong audience interest and positive initial reception. Meanwhile, the Hindi version had a relatively moderate start but is expected to gain traction over the weekend, largely driven by word of mouth and growing curiosity among non-Marathi audiences.
Directed by and starring Riteish Deshmukh, the film brings to life the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with grandeur and emotion. Riteish’s transformation into the iconic Maratha warrior king has been one of the biggest talking points, with fans and critics alike praising his dedication to the role. The film attempts to blend history with cinematic scale, offering both visual spectacle and emotional depth.
Adding further weight to the narrative is a strong supporting cast that includes Genelia Deshmukh and Bhagyashree, among others. Their performances complement the storytelling, helping bring the era and its characters to life. The ensemble approach adds layers to the film, making it more than just a biographical retelling.
What makes this opening even more impressive is the way the film has resonated with audiences right from day one. Strong cultural connect, powerful storytelling, and the significance of the release date have all contributed to its phenomenal start. If the current momentum continues, Raja Shivaji could go on to redefine box office expectations for regional cinema.
With the weekend ahead and positive buzz building, all eyes are now on how the film performs in the coming days. For now, Raja Shivaji has firmly established itself as a box office force, marking a proud and historic moment for Marathi cinema.