Riteish Deshmukh’s directorial debut Raja Shivaji continues to gain momentum as Vidya Balan joins the team in a key role. The historical epic, based on the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is quietly shaping up into one of the most ambitious period dramas in recent times.
A Story Rooted in Maharashtra, Made for the Nation
While deeply rooted in the cultural and historical heartland of Maharashtra, Raja Shivaji is one of the few projects from Marathi cinema that aims to reach out to a pan-Indian audience. The film has been in production for a while and is backed by a strong ensemble cast, with Riteish also playing the lead. He pulled off a casting coup for the Pan India film from Marathi cinema by getting a formidable ensemble of Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Genelia Deshmukh among others.
The makers have now brought Vidya Balan on board to add further depth to the narrative. Her presence is expected to bring a strong emotional layer to a story already packed with historic significance.
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“It Was an Instant Yes from Vidya Balan”
As per a report by Pinkvilla, a source close to the development confirmed Vidya’s involvement. “Vidya is very excited to be a part of a film that tells one of the bravest chapters of Indian History. It was an instant yes from her end to come on board Raja Shivaji, and Riteish too is ecstatic to direct a talent like Vidya in his directorial debut,” the source shared.
The source further added, “It’s a key role, and warranted the presence of a strong actor. And reaching out to Vidya was a no-brainer for Riteish too. The shooting for Raja Shivaji is going on in full swing and the makers are committed to bring it to the spectacle on May 1, 2026.”
Vidya has reportedly completed her look test and is expected to join the sets within the next couple of weeks.
A Film That’s “Not Just a Film, But a Feeling”
With a cast that already includes names like Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, and Genelia Deshmukh, Raja Shivaji is being mounted on a large scale with a personal touch. As the source put it, “The tale of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had to come from the heartland of Maharashtra. It’s not just a film, but a feeling for the entire team and they are committed to come up with an honest and sincere take on the life of Raja Shivaji.”
As filming continues and more details unfold, the buzz around Raja Shivaji is only expected to grow. An official announcement about Vidya’s role may be on the horizon.
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