Moneycontrol PRO
Swing Trading 101
Swing Trading 101

Raja Shivaji first poster unveiled on Shiv Jayanti, Riteish Deshmukh stuns as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

On Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company unveiled the powerful first poster of Raja Shivaji, featuring Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh in the iconic role of Shivaji Maharaj.

February 19, 2026 / 17:00 IST
Raja Shivaji first poster unveiled on Shiv Jayanti, Riteish Deshmukh stuns as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Snapshot AI
  • First poster of Raja Shivaji unveiled by Riteish Deshmukh
  • Film set for worldwide release on May 1, 2026
  • Raja Shivaji to be a bilingual Marathi-Hindi action drama

On the sacred occasion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company unveiled the first commanding poster of Raja Shivaji, instantly setting the tone for what promises to be one of the biggest cinematic spectacles of the year. The reveal was made by actor and director Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh, who steps into the formidable role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The poster is striking in its restraint and power. Riteish appears in a commanding side profile, sword gripped firmly in hand, shoulders squared, gaze fixed ahead with steely resolve. There is no dramatic chaos in the frame. Instead, there is silence. The kind of silence that comes before a storm. The image captures the weight of an oath, the birth of Swarajya, and the quiet determination of a warrior who would change the course of Indian history.

Raja Shivaji is positioned as one of the biggest pan-India cinematic offerings of 2026. Designed as a bilingual action drama in Marathi and Hindi, the film aims to bridge linguistic boundaries and take the story of Shivaji Maharaj to audiences across India and beyond. It is not merely being mounted as a regional historical film but as a cultural spectacle for the global stage.

Also Read: Shikhar Dhawan shares sangeet night pictures with fiance Sophie Shine, wedding festivities begin

The project brings together an impressive creative team that signals scale and ambition. The music is composed by celebrated duo Ajay–Atul, known for their emotionally stirring and grand compositions. Cinematography is helmed by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Santosh Sivan, whose visual storytelling is expected to lend the film a sweeping epic quality. Together, these creative forces underline the magnitude and visual grandeur befitting the legacy the film seeks to honour.

More than a retelling of a king’s life, Raja Shivaji chronicles the journey of a son who took a solemn vow and rose against formidable powers to carve out Swarajya. It is the story of a leader who chose rebellion over submission, resilience over fear, and in doing so, ignited the spirit of resistance that shaped India’s history. The makers aim to present this powerful narrative not as myth, but as a cinematic tribute rooted in courage, conviction, and cultural pride.

Presented by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under the banner of Mumbai Film Company, the film is set to release in cinemas worldwide on May 1, 2026.

With its first poster, Raja Shivaji has made its intent clear. This is not just a film announcement. It is a statement. And if the visual is any indication, a cinematic roar is indeed preparing to echo across India and the world.

Vaishnavi Gavankar is a senior entertainment journalist with over 8 years of experience covering Bollywood, Television, OTT platforms, and regional cinema.
first published: Feb 19, 2026 04:42 pm

Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

Subscribe to Tech Newsletters

  • On Saturdays

    Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.

  • Daily-Weekdays

    Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.

Advisory Alert: It has come to our attention that certain individuals are representing themselves as affiliates of Moneycontrol and soliciting funds on the false promise of assured returns on their investments. We wish to reiterate that Moneycontrol does not solicit funds from investors and neither does it promise any assured returns. In case you are approached by anyone making such claims, please write to us at grievanceofficer@nw18.com or call on 02268882347