It is a raining biography of the revered Indian ruler Shivaji Bhonsle in 17th century Mumbai.
Days after announcing Sandeep Singh’s ‘The Pride of Bharat – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’, billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Corporation actors Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh have unveiled their collaboration for ‘Raja Shivaji’. Both the films were unveiled on the occasion of the 394th birth anniversary of Shivaji on February 19. Shivaji (1630-1680) established the Maratha Empire when most of India was under Mughal rule, and regained his territories using a combination of military action and strategic thinking. .
‘Raja Shivaji’, a bilingual in Marathi and Hindi, will trace the journey of the young Shivaji, who fought against the powers that be and was crowned as Chhatrapati (King). Riteish Deshmukh will direct and play the lead role. Deshmukh makes his debut as a director and also starred in the 2022 blockbuster “Ved”. Cinematography is by Santosh Sivan (2023 Rotterdam title “Moha”) and music is by the duo Ajay-Atul (“Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior”).
The big-budget film is produced by Jyoti Deshpande, who is the head of media and entertainment at Ambani’s Reliance Industries Limited, and Genelia Deshmukh.
“At Jio Studios, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of storytelling and bringing diverse narratives to audiences across the world,” Deshpande said. “Raja Shivaji” embodies this vision. It is not just a regional tale, it is a culturally rooted story designed to transcend languages and regions, and we are very proud of the collaboration. With Ritesh and Genelia in bringing the story of one of India’s greatest sons of the soil to life through this amazing project.”
Genelia Deshmukh added: “We are embarking on a noble endeavour, not just to produce a film, but to weave a narrative thread that enriches the fabric of our culture and history. ‘Raja Shivaji’ is our biggest dream, and we couldn’t have found a better partner than Jyoti Deshpande and Jio Studios, who have a legacy of doing the unthinkable.”
Riteish Deshmukh said: “In the annals of history, a figure appears beyond mere mortal existence – a legend, an icon, an eternal flame of inspiration. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not just a historical figure; It is an emotion, a timeless epic of courage, and a beacon of hope that has illuminated hearts for more than three and a half centuries. It has always been our deepest ambition to immortalize his astonishing journey on the grand canvas of cinema – a journey of epic proportions, depicting the rise of a boy who defied the invincible, and ignited the fires of Swarajya. A rebel whose courage knows no bounds, he He not only ruled the land but conquered hearts, earning the endearing title of ‘Raja Shivaji’.
Sivan added: “Raja Shivaji is not just a film; It is the culmination of passion, dedication and years of meticulous research and writing by Riteish Deshmukh. Having been invited years ago to film this journey, seeing it come to life is a testament to the power of vision and perseverance in the world of cinema.
Ajay Atul said: “The sonorous sound of the trumpet, which has now become commonplace at every event and celebration, once heralded the arrival of a great and depicted the bravery of our brave king. Playing the trumpet of that very king on ‘Raja Shivaji’ evokes an overwhelming feeling, a deep sense of pride.” Such tracks often require patience, and with ‘Raja Shivaji’, we believe this is the right moment, a golden opportunity.”
Production is scheduled to begin soon.