The much-anticipated historical epic Raja Shivaji, directed by and starring Riteish Deshmukh, is already creating waves ahead of its theatrical release on May 1, 2026. Within hours of opening, bookings crossed the 10,000-ticket mark, signalling strong audience interest in the film.
Rapid Ticket Sales
Trade reports reveal that bookings began steadily, with 1,660 tickets sold in the first hour. By early afternoon, sales had surged to nearly 5,000 tickets, and by evening, the tally crossed 10,000. In addition, between 82,000 and 85,000 users marked interest in the film across major cities such as Mumbai and Pune, underscoring the excitement surrounding its release.
Star-Studded Cast
The film boasts an impressive ensemble, with Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, and Vidya Balan joining Deshmukh in pivotal roles. Shot in Marathi, Hindi, and Telugu, the film is positioned as a pan-India release, aiming to capture audiences across linguistic and regional boundaries.
Riteish Deshmukh’s Dream Project
At the trailer launch, Deshmukh was visibly emotional, describing the film as a decade-long dream finally coming to life. He addressed claims about historical distortions, dismissing them as “nonsense,” and emphasised the film’s commitment to honouring the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Maharashtra Day Release
The film’s release date of May 1, 2026, coincides with Maharashtra Day, adding symbolic weight to its premiere. The timing is expected to further boost audience turnout, especially in Maharashtra, where Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy holds deep cultural significance.
With bookings already crossing 10,000 tickets in record time, Raja Shivaji is shaping up to be one of the biggest releases of 2026. Backed by a stellar cast, a passionate director, and strong audience anticipation, the film is poised to make a significant impact at the box office when it arrives in theatres this May.
