MUMBAI: The highly anticipated historical drama Raja Shivaji, directed by and starring actor-filmmaker Riteish Deshmukh, has officially arrived in cinemas as of May 1, 2026.
The film, which serves as a cinematic tribute to the life and legacy of the legendary Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has generated considerable buzz in the Indian film industry.
Early reviews for the production have been largely positive, with critics highlighting the film’s grand scale and Deshmukh’s sincere approach to the historical subject matter.
Deshmukh has earned praise for both his performance in the lead role and his vision as a director, with some reviewers awarding the film 3.5 stars. Adding to the film’s theatrical momentum is a widely discussed cameo by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, an inclusion that has been lauded by industry peers, including actor Rakhi Sawant, who encouraged audiences to witness the director’s tribute to the Maratha pride.
Box Office Performance
The film’s release coincides with the opening of the movie Ek Din, setting the stage for a notable box office clash. Industry analysts had previously projected a strong opening for the historical epic, with initial estimates for the Hindi market ranging between Rs 1.5 to 4 crore, though actual figures are expected to adjust once full opening-day data is synthesized. As of the latest reports, Raja Shivaji is tracking with a positive start at the box office, reflecting strong audience interest in the grand historical narrative.
