Latest news with #RajaShivaji
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Hindi Cinema's Maharashtrian Moment: Celebrating History, Icons, and Regional Pride
Hindi cinema is increasingly highlighting Maharashtra's history and iconic figures, showcasing regional narratives on a national level. Recent and upcoming films celebrate Maharashtrian heritage, from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's portrayal by Riteish Deshmukh to biopics on Sambhaji Maharaj, Veer Savarkar, and Dadasaheb Phalke. These cinematic ventures reflect Bollywood's commitment to honoring Maharashtra's diverse legacy and influential personalities. Hindi cinema is increasingly embracing the rich tapestry of Maharashtra's history and its iconic figures, reflecting a broader shift towards regional narratives that resonate on a national scale. From legendary warriors to pioneering social reformers and cinematic trailblazers, recent and upcoming films underscore Bollywood's growing commitment to celebrating Maharashtrian heritage. Riteish Deshmukh's Raja Shivaji: A Dream Realized Riteish Deshmukh, a proud Maharashtrian, is bringing his long-cherished dream to life with Raja Shivaji, a grand cinematic portrayal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Not only is Deshmukh directing and starring in the film, but he's also co-producing it alongside his wife, Genelia Deshmukh, under their Mumbai Film Company banner. The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Fardeen Khan, and Bhagyashree. The recently unveiled first-look poster has already generated significant buzz, promising a powerful depiction of the Maratha warrior's life and legacy. This is not the only project on Shivaji Maharaj, Rishabh Shetty riding high on success of Kantara has also signed a film to the play Maharastrain Icon for a film backed by Sandeep Singh who is known for his projects like Sarabjit and Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava: The Saga of Sambhaji Maharaj Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava chronicled the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant son of Shivaji Maharaj. Vicky Kaushal delivered a compelling performance in the titular role, supported by a cast that includes Akshaye Khanna and Rashmika Mandanna. The film, an adaptation of Shivaji Sawant's Marathi novel Chhava, was released on February 14, 2025, and has since become the highest-grossing Hindi film of the year, earning over ₹800 crore worldwide. Randeep Hooda's Swatantrya Veer Savarkar: A Bold, Unflinching Biopic Another significant addition to this Maharashtrian cinematic renaissance is Randeep Hooda's Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. Not only did Hooda portray the complex, controversial freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar on screen, but he also made his directorial debut with this intense biopic. Released in 2024, the film was lauded for Hooda's transformative performance and unflinching narrative. While it ignited debates owing to Savarkar's polarizing legacy, it was widely praised for reigniting conversations around India's freedom struggle and the figures history often sidelines. Ajay Devgn's Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior: A Historic Blockbuster No conversation about Maharashtrian history in Hindi cinema is complete without mentioning Ajay Devgn's Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior. Released in 2020, the film brought to life the story of Tanaji Malusare, a fierce Maratha warrior and trusted commander of Shivaji Maharaj. Directed by Om Raut, the film was a visual spectacle, known for its grand action sequences and gripping storytelling. Starring Devgn, Saif Ali Khan , and Kajol, Tanhaji was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over ₹360 crore worldwide and earning a National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Bajirao Mastani: A Visual Spectacle Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 2015 epic Bajirao Mastani brought the tale of Peshwa Bajirao I and his love for Mastani to the big screen with grandeur and opulence. Starring Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra, the film was celebrated for its production design, powerful performances, and Bhansali's directorial mastery. It remains one of Bollywood's finest historical dramas and a testament to the cinematic potential of regional narratives. Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani's Upcoming Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic Aamir Khan and director Rajkumar Hirani are set to collaborate on a biopic of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema. The announcement has generated excitement, especially with reports of another Phalke biopic involving Jr NTR and SS Rajamouli. Adding to the intrigue, Phalke's grandson has publicly endorsed the Khan-Hirani venture, expressing confidence in its authenticity and vision. Phule: Honoring Social Reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule Directed by Anant Mahadevan, Phule explores the lives of Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, pioneering figures in India's fight against caste discrimination and champions for women's education. Starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, the film released on April 25, 2025, after a brief CBFC-mandated delay. Critics praised it for its sensitive storytelling and the relevance of its themes in today's society. A Cinematic Renaissance of Maharashtrian Narratives The recent surge of films centered around Maharashtrian icons reflects Bollywood's renewed interest in regional histories that have shaped India's socio-cultural landscape. From the bravery of Shivaji and Sambhaji Maharaj to the reformist zeal of the Phules, the cinematic legacy of Dadasaheb Phalke, and the complex persona of Savarkar, these narratives celebrate Maharashtra's rich, diverse heritage. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Mint
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
'Never stop being the amazing, brave': Riteish, Genelia pen adorable birthday wishes for their son Rahyl
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 1 (ANI): Couple Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh have penned heartfelt birthday messages for their son Rahyl on Sunday. Taking to Instagram, Genelia talked about how her secondborn makes her feel "softer and stronger all at once." "My Dearest Rahyl You are my little chaos - that made me softer and stronger all at onceOne moment you are testing my patience, making messes and keeping me on my toesAnd the next, your little arms are wrapped around my neck like I'm your whole worldRahyl your love is big, your hugs are tight and your laughter makes every exhausting moment feel all worth it Happy Birthday Baby Boy - You are most special being = Youwhether it means you being the biggest brat, or the one that cares for everyone unconditionally - Don't change Eva," wrote Genelia as he poured her out for Rahyl. She also shared several candid pictures with Rahyl from his sporty birthday celebration. Riteish's post for his "beta" is quite adorable as well. He posted, "From the moment you came into our lives, you brought a whirlwind of joy, energy, and endless love. Watching you grow into the fearless, fun-loving, football-kicking star that you are has been the greatest adventure of our run with excitement, dream with your whole heart, and face every challenge with a courage that inspires us. Whether you're scoring goals on the field or bringing smiles with your laughter, you fill our world with light, love, and so much pride." "Never stop being the amazing, brave, and unstoppable Rahyl that we love so much. You make every day brighter just by being you. We love you more than words can ever express. Here's to a year full of fun, football, and unforgettable adventures! Happy Birthday Beta,' Riteish added. Genelia and Riteish tied the knot on February 3, 2012. They welcomed their son Riaan in November 2014 and their second son Rahyl in June 2016. Meanwhile, on the work front, Genelia will be seen sharing screen space with Aamir Khan in 'Sitaare Zameen Par', which will hit the theatres on June 20. She also a special role in husband Riteish Deshmukh's directorial 'Raja Shivaji'. It will be released in May next year. On June 6, Ritiesh's film 'Housefull 5' is releasing in theatres. In the movie, he will be seen alongside Akshay Kumar, Nana Patekar, Fardeen Khan, Abhishek Bachchan and Dino Morea. (ANI)
Hans India
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Bhagyashree: Watching a film in a theatre is definitely fun
Mumbai: Actress Bhagyashree went for Tom Cruise's 'Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning' on date night with 'hubby' Himalaya and said that watching a film in a theatre is fun. Bhagyashree took to Instagram, where she shared a slew of images featuring her and her husband. Another showcased a glimpse of the film and she also shared a picture of the big popcorn tub she gorged on. She wrote: 'Date Night.. Movie Night ! What's a movie experience without popcorn right? I know the OTT platforms have taken over but the whole experience of watching a film in a theatre is definitely fun. Choose a film you are excited to watch and make that effort…' 'Besides its a night out that is different from the mundane. Also took us back to the time when romance did mean holding hands in a theatre, anticipating what's to come,' the actress said. She urged not to miss the film. 'And sincerely couldn't miss this one! Edge of the seat action. Unbelievable that @tomcruise still does his own stunts and age doesn't stop him. #datenight #hubbynme #movienight #moviedate.' The latest Mission: Impossible movie takes great care to wind details from films throughout the 30-year-old franchise into its storyline. The latest installment follows Cruise's Ethan Hunt as he and his team continue the battle over an advanced artificial intelligence known as the Entity that has the ability to destroy the world if put in the wrong hands or allowed to run amok independently, which was first introduced in 2023's Dead Reckoning. 'Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning' will hit the theaters May 23. The actress will next be seen in Riteish Deshmukh-starrer 'Raja Shivaji', based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Helmed by Riteish, who also essays the titular role, the historical action drama also stars Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Genelia Deshmukh. 'Raja Shivaji,' a pan-India film, unfolds against the backdrop of a turbulent era marked by warring empires and rising uprisings. The film traces the inspiring rise of a young Shivaji, who challenged powerful forces, sparked a revolution, and emerged as the iconic Raja Shivaji—paving the way for Swarajya. The film is currently being shot at various locations in Mumbai and Wai, Maharashtra. The film is scheduled for a worldwide release on May 1, 2026.
New Indian Express
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt and Abhishek Bachchan to star in Raja Shivaji
Raja Shivaji, an upcoming film on the life of the Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was announced by the makers on Wednesday. Directed by Riteish Deshmukh (who will also star in the titular role), the film will also feature an ensemble cast of Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte and Genelia Deshmukh. A motion poster of the film, shared by the makers on Wednesday, shows Riteish's Shivaji standing in a blazing battlefield. The film's cinematography will be done by Santosh Sivan while Ajay-Atul will be giving the music. Raja Shivaji is slated to release on Maharashtra Day next year on May 1, 2026. The film, as per reports, will chronicle the rise of young Shivaji Bhonsale, the founder of Maratha empire, who challenged the might of established empires and lay the groundwork for 'Swarajya' (self-rule) during a turbulent period of Indian history.
NDTV
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Abhishek Bachchan Is "More Scared" Of Wife Aishwarya Rai Than Mother Jaya Bachchan, Reveals Shweta
New Delhi: An old clip from Koffee With Karan featuring Abhishek Bachchan and Shweta Bachchan is going viral on social media. The video shows Abhishek being asked a humorous question by Karan Johar during the rapid-fire round. Johar asked, "Who are you more scared of, your wife or your mother?" Abhishek replied, "My mother." To this, his sister Shweta interjected, "Wife." Abhishek then responded, "It's my rapid fire, be quiet." The moment has been widely shared and amused fans online. Meanwhile, Aishwarya Rai, often referred to as the 'Queen of Cannes,' made her appearance on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet this week. On Wednesday, she wore a white saree with gold detailing. For her second appearance, she opted for a black gown. Aishwarya, a longtime ambassador for L'Oreal Paris, has been a regular at Cannes for over two decades. Abhishek Bachchan recently announced his next film, Raja Shivaji, directed by Riteish Deshmukh. The first look and release date were shared on May 21. The film features an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, and Amole Gupte. Genelia Deshmukh, co-producing the project under Mumbai Film Company, is also part of the cast. The film is set to release on Maharashtra Day, May 1, 2026. Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai married on April 20, 2007, in an intimate ceremony at the Bachchan residence, Prateeksha, in Juhu, Mumbai. The couple welcomed their daughter Aaradhya in 2011.
