- By Sidhi Agarwall
- Thu, 26 Jun 2025 06:37 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Raja Shivaji: Announced by India's Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company, the historical action epic Raja Shivaji is set for a worldwide release on May 1, 2026, coinciding with Maharashtra Day. Helmed by Riteish Deshmukh, who also portrays the lead character, the movie narrates the tale of India's one of the most celebrated warriors. Adding to its ensemble cast, which already includes Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Genelia Deshmukh, the film Shivaji is now reported to have a new addition.
Vidya Balan’s Addition To Raja Shivaji’s Cast
With already a star-studded lineup, there are reports that Vidya Balan, best known for movies like Kahaani, Bhool Bhulaiya, The Dirty Picture and Ishqiya, has also been roped in for a supporting role. According to a report in Pinkvilla, Vidya Balan is also set to play a key role in the film. “Vidya is very excited to be a part of a film that tells one of the bravest chapters of Indian history. It was an instant yes from her end to come on board Raja Shivaji, and Riteish too is ecstatic to direct a talent like Vidya in his directorial debut,” the report mentioned.
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Meanwhile, Vidya Balan has also reportedly done her look test for the movie and will be joining the sets in a fortnight. “It’s a key role and warranted the presence of a strong actor. And reaching out to Vidya was a no-brainer for Riteish too. The shooting for Raja Shivaji is going on in full swing, and the makers are committed to bringing it to the spectacle on May 1, 2026,” the report added.
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Furthermore, Raja Shivaji happens to be one of the very few projects from Marathi cinema that aims to reach out to a pan-Indian audience. “The tale of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had to come from the heartland of Maharashtra. It’s not just a film but a feeling for the entire team, and they are committed to coming up with an honest and sincere take on the life of Raja Shivaji,” the report concluded.
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About Raja Shivaji Movie
Raja Shivaji chronicles the early life of Shivaji Bhonsale as he challenges established empires, laying the groundwork for the Maratha kingdom and Swarajya during a turbulent period in Indian history.This historical epic is expected to release in multiple languages, including Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.