Celebrated cinematographer Santosh Sivan is making his Marathi film debut with Raja Shivaji, directed by Riteish Deshmukh. The upcoming historical drama is based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and is scheduled for release in Marathi and Hindi on May 1, 2026.
Known for his work in acclaimed films such as Dil Se.., Asoka and Raavan, Santosh Sivan brings his visual style to Maharashtra’s history for the first time. Over the years, he has been recognised as one of India’s most respected cinematographers and has received several honours for his contribution to cinema.
In Raja Shivaji, Sivan focuses on creating an atmosphere that feels authentic to the period. The visuals seen in the trailer include battle sequences, fort interiors, torch-lit passages, stone corridors, cavalry formations and sword combat. The makers aim to present the setting in a grounded manner rather than as a staged spectacle.
One of the trailer’s key moments features Shivaji Maharaj holding the iconic Wagh Nakh, while references to Hindavi Swarajya underline the film’s historical and emotional core.
Speaking about his approach to the film, Santosh Sivan said, “I didn’t want to recreate history as something distant. It had to feel lived-in. Once that world feels authentic, the story unfolds naturally and connects with the audience.”
The film features a large cast from Hindi and Marathi cinema, including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Boman Irani, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amol Gupte, Genelia Deshmukh and Riteish Deshmukh. Presented by Jio Studios, the film is produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under Mumbai Film Company. Raja Shivaji is set for a worldwide theatrical release on May 1, 2026.
Also Read: Bombay High Court dismisses PIL seeking change in Raja Shivaji’s title
More Pages: Raja Shivaji Box Office Collection , Raja Shivaji Movie Review
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