Top Actors Who Portrayed Maratha King Shivaji on Film

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s birth anniversary spotlights his enduring cinematic legacy. The architect of Maratha pride, his guerrilla tactics against Mughals and strategic genius have inspired historians and filmmakers alike. Over decades, a galaxy of stars has brought his multifaceted character to life with remarkable finesse. Standout is Sharad Kelkar in Om Raut’s ‘Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior’ (2020), where his Shivaji commanded awe amid Tanaji’s heroics. Mahesh Manjrekar’s 2009 portrayal in ‘Me Shivajiraje Bhosle Boltoy!’ offered a philosophical depth, helmed by Santosh Sivanand. In ‘Hirkani’ (2019), Prasad Oak’s Shivaji anchored the story of a daring climber at Raigad, scripted by Chinmay Mandlekar, with Sonali Kulkarni adding emotional layers. Riteish Deshmukh’s bold move in ‘Raja Shivaji’ sees him helm direction and lead, backed by Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, and Bhagyashree. Post-production complete, it releases May 1 as a pan-India epic. Naseeruddin Shah set the gold standard in Shyam Benegal’s ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’ TV series (1988), blending intellect with valor. Amol Kolhe’s ‘Raja Shivchhatrapati’ serial won hearts in Marathi television. Through these renditions, Shivaji’s principles of justice and courage resonate afresh, reminding us why he remains India’s ultimate warrior king.