Stars Who Mastered Chhatrapati Shivaji Role on Screen

MUMBAI: On the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, we celebrate the fearless warrior whose legacy continues to inspire generations. His battles against the Mughals and British have etched him into Indian history as an immortal icon. Bollywood and Marathi cinema have repeatedly brought his epic life to the silver screen, with a stellar lineup of actors embodying his valor, vision, and leadership. From veteran Naseeruddin Shah to rising stars like Riteish Deshmukh and Sharad Kelkar, these performers have left an indelible mark. In 2020’s blockbuster ‘Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior’, directed by Om Raut, Sharad Kelkar’s portrayal of Shivaji Maharaj stole the show despite the focus on Tanaji Malusare. Audiences raved about his commanding presence and nuanced acting. Mahesh Manjrekar took on the role in the 2009 Marathi hit ‘Me Shivajiraje Bhosle Boltoy!’, directed by his son Santosh Sivanand. Manjrekar depicted the king as a profound mentor, earning widespread acclaim for his depth and authenticity. Prasad Oak shone in 2019’s ‘Hirkani’, a tale of a brave woman from Raigad fort’s vicinity. Oak’s Shivaji was both regal and relatable, complemented by Sonali Kulkarni’s pivotal performance. Riteish Deshmukh steps into the legend’s shoes in his directorial debut ‘Raja Shivaji’, an upcoming pan-India spectacle starring Sanjay Dutt and Abhishek Bachchan. Shooting wrapped up, with release slated for May 1. This ambitious project promises to captivate with its grand scale. These portrayals not only honor the Maratha Samrat but reignite his timeless relevance in modern storytelling.