Mumbai: Raja Shivaji is being positioned as one of the biggest and most ambitiously mounted Marathi films in the history of the industry. The scale achieved by actor-filmmaker Riteish Deshmukh, right from its expansive cast to its high production value and grand visual treatment, stands out as a cinematic tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Bringing together several prominent names from the Indian entertainment industry, the film aims to celebrate one of India’s most revered historical icons on an unprecedented scale. Early trade indicators suggest that advance bookings have opened strongly, reinforcing expectations that the film could become the biggest Marathi release ever in terms of budget and reach.
Industry observers are closely watching its box-office prospects, with Maharashtra expected to lead collections, while dubbed versions in Hindi and Telugu could help the film expand its footprint nationwide. Comparisons are already being drawn with past historical successes like Tanhaji (2020) and Chhaava (2025), which resonated strongly with audiences.
Trade sentiment remains optimistic that Deshmukh could recreate the box-office success he delivered with Lai Bhaari (2014), potentially setting new benchmarks for Marathi cinema.
At the same time, analysts caution that it is too early to estimate Hindi market numbers. Exhibitor and film analyst Akshaye Rathi says, “I think numbers in terms of Hindi are too early to talk about, but if you purely look at the release focus by the team of the film, it seems to be a very Marathi-first approach. The subject is such that it truly deserves pan-India appeal, and therefore, it makes a lot of sense that they’ve also dubbed the movie in Hindi as well as Telugu.”
While the positioning clearly emphasises its Marathi roots, the film is strategically placed to tap into a broader national audience if word of mouth aligns with expectations.
Advance booking surge signals strong opening
Advance bookings for the Marathi version of Raja Shivaji have officially opened, and early trends indicate stronger initial interest compared to Spirit and Toxic.
The film has reportedly already secured a strong financial footing, with digital rights sold for approximately Rs 150 crore. The makers are now targeting a historic opening on Maharashtra Day on May 1, a strategic date expected to maximise regional turnout. Early data suggests total interest has crossed the 83,000 mark on ticketing platforms, signalling the potential for a massive opening day, particularly across key circuits in Maharashtra.
Another major talking point is the film’s ensemble cast, particularly the reunion of 2000 film Chal Mere Bhai stars Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt, which is expected to drive significant curiosity among non-Marathi audiences.