Mumbai: Riteish Deshmukh’s historical film ‘Raja Shivaji’, which hit theatres on Friday, received a strong response from the audience and critics.
Riteish not only plays the lead, but has also directed the film. The cast includes Abhishek Bachchan, Bhagyashree, Genelia Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, and Vidya Balan in important roles, with superstar Salman Khan making a special appearance.
Viewers on social media applauded Riteish’s performance as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, describing it as one of the standout roles of his career.
The film’s direction, grand battle scenes, and emotionally engaging narrative have struck a chord with the audience, while the supporting cast has also been appreciated.
Many even called ‘Raja Shivaji’ one of the best historical dramas in recent years, raising expectations of a strong box-office performance.
If you’re considering watching it, here’s a look at some of the viewers’ reactions to this cinematic take on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj:
Dear fellow Mumbaikars & Maharashtrians, do yourself a favour and watch #RajaShivaji in theatres. It’s more than a film, it’s a journey into history, honouring the greatness of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. A powerful & beautifully crafted tribute 🙏#JaiShivrai #JioStudios 💪 pic.twitter.com/ZkvHlZSEWc
— hemanshu mistry (@_hemanshu_) May 1, 2026
In my opinion this is the CAREER-BEST PRESENTATION of #AbhishekBachchan by any director. Absolutely TERRIFIC!#RajaShivaji @juniorbachchan
— Aavishkar (@aavishhkar) May 1, 2026
@Riteishd @geneliad @jiostudios @mfc
रयतेशी वागताना मानवतेचे सद्गगुणी सात्विक रूप आणि गनिमांशी लढताना पराक्रमी रूप फक्त तुमच्यामुळे आम्हाला इतक्या मोठ्या पडद्यावर पाहायला मिळाले.
अत्यंत आभारी रितेश भाऊ. 🌺🙏♥️#राजाशिवाजी #RajaShivaji pic.twitter.com/0NjvYYdxr6— Shrikant Bagal (@Shreetweets23) May 1, 2026
#OneWordReview…#RajaShivaji: POWER-PACKED.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️½
A magnificent tribute to one of #India‘s greatest warrior kings – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj… Director #RiteishDeshmukh delivers a landmark film… DON’T MISS IT! #RajaShivajiReview#RajaShivaji is a grand… pic.twitter.com/ooQyQaNeMo— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) May 1, 2026
@Riteishd and @geneliad Chemistry in #RajaShivaji Was so good .. brilliant casting well done direction..music publishing cinematography are amazing 😍
Genila and ritesh are perfect choice for this film. ❣️Must must watch 💯
Watch this film only for @Riteishd and @geneliad pic.twitter.com/fek7SU8fLf
— Hitesh Kumar (@HiteshKumar2112) May 1, 2026
#RajaShivaji #JivaMahala ,
What a CAMEO…..!! #Salmankhan
Ritesh Deshmukh knows how to present #salmankhan on Screen. Ritesh really brings out bhaijaan’s INTENSE SCREEN PRESENCE . 💣💣#Salmankhan #JivaMahala pic.twitter.com/MlZOnFOkDn
— Zaid Nasim (@ZaidNasim7) May 1, 2026
#Rajashivaji Review… 3.5Stars Every actor works @AjayAtulOnline killed it seriously and @Riteishd you did good but both your son did a better job than you… Now thats a Achievement and @juniorbachchan great hold marathi sirji maza agaya🫡… Will watch in hindi later
— Santosh Herkal (@evilmady) May 1, 2026
Hats off to @Riteishd for bringing our King #RajaShivaji’s story on such a grand scale in Marathi. I have been to the FDFS & I must say, I wasn’t aware of your game @Riteishd – The director. The best man who could’ve directed this movie is none other than you. This is Brilliantly
— Shriram Kure (@shriramkure) May 1, 2026
Megastar SALMAN KHAN delivers a power-packed Cameo as Jiva Mahal in #RajaShivaji 🔥👑
Another ICONIC Cameo from BHAI after Pathaan. pic.twitter.com/q7skk6gEHM— Pαѕнα (@ibeingxpasha_) May 1, 2026
‘Raja Shivaji’ is backed by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under Mumbai Film Company, and presented by Jio Studios.