Riteish Deshmukh to Sharad Kelkar: Actors as Shivaji Maharaj

Celebrating Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s jayanti, let’s revisit the screen icons who have channeled the Maratha warrior king’s indomitable spirit. Known for founding a mighty empire and defying imperial powers, Shivaji’s saga has fueled countless films and shows, with actors delivering unforgettable performances. Sharad Kelkar’s riveting Shivaji in ‘Tanhaji’ (2020) overshadowed even the lead narrative, earning him accolades for his fierce intensity under Om Raut’s direction. In 2009, Mahesh Manjrekar’s ‘Me Shivajiraje Bhosle Boltoy!’ portrayed a wise, inspirational ruler, directed masterfully by Santosh Sivanand Manjrekar. Prasad Oak embodied majesty in ‘Hirkani’ (2019), weaving Shivaji into the brave tale of a mother scaling Raigad’s treacherous cliffs. Written by Chinmay Mandlekar, the film highlighted Oak’s poised charisma alongside Sonali Kulkarni. Excitement builds for Riteish Deshmukh’s ‘Raja Shivaji’, where he directs and stars as the icon. Packed with A-listers like Sanjay Dutt and Abhishek Bachchan, this pan-India venture hits screens on May 1 after completing shoots. Television legends include Naseeruddin Shah’s scholarly depiction in ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’ (1988), a Shyam Benegal masterpiece. Amol Kolhe’s TV serial ‘Raja Shivchhatrapati’ made him a household name in Marathi homes. These actors have not just played a role; they’ve resurrected a national hero for new audiences.