Rishab Shetty Stuns as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in First Look Poster

Rishab Shetty, the National Award-winning actor, has captivated audiences once again with the unveiling of his look for the historical drama Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Directed by Sandeep Singh, this ambitious project is set to chronicle the life and legacy of the revered 17th-century warrior king. Shetty took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the first look poster, introducing his role as the iconic ruler.

“Our Honour & Privilege, Presenting the Epic Saga of India’s Greatest Warrior King – The Pride of Bharat: #ChhatrapatiShivajiMaharaj. This isn’t just a film – it’s a battle cry to honor a warrior who fought against all odds, challenged the might of the Mighty Mughal empire, and forged a legacy that can never be forgotten,” Shetty wrote. The film is scheduled for a global release on January 21, 2027.

A Visionary Collaboration Between Actor and Director

This film marks the theatrical directorial debut of Sandeep Singh, known for producing acclaimed works like Mary Kom and Jhund. Sharing his enthusiasm, Singh called Shetty his “first and only choice” for the role, stating, “He truly embodies the strength, spirit, and valor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

This film has been my dream for many years now, and it is my privilege and honor to be bringing this story to the silver screen.”

In a statement, Shetty expressed his excitement for the role, saying, “Sandeep’s vision for The Pride Of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was so grand, that as soon as I heard the film, I said yes without blinking any eyelid.

Playing The Pride Of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is an honor beyond words. He is a national hero whose impact transcends history, and I feel immense pride in bringing his story to the screen.”

Fans Hail the First Look

The announcement has been met with widespread acclaim from fans and the film industry alike. On social media, one fan commented, “This man is on a mission to make the Sandalwood industry proud.”

Another wrote, “Wow, this could be epic!” Others praised Shetty’s versatility, referencing his involvement in other high-profile projects such as the Kantara prequel and Jai Hanuman.

Rishab Shetty’s Diverse Lineup of Projects

Shetty is already juggling multiple major projects. He is currently working on Kantara: Chapter 1, the prequel to his blockbuster film Kantara, which is set for release on October 2, 2025.

The film will be released in multiple languages, including English, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi, and is being backed by Hombale Films.

Adding to his ambitious slate, Shetty will headline Prasanth Varma’s Hanu-Man sequel, titled Jai Hanuman, in which he will portray the Hindu deity Lord Hanuman.

This film is scheduled for release in 2026, preceding his role in The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Epic Scale and Global Ambitions

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is set to be a magnum opus, employing advanced visual effects and international technical expertise to bring the warrior king’s story to life.

Singh’s commitment to capturing the essence of Shivaji Maharaj is evident, as he aims to create an immersive cinematic experience.

The first poster features Shetty in the role of the iconic king, wielding a sword and exuding determination.

With a tagline that highlights the film as a “battle cry to honor a warrior,” the project promises to delve into Shivaji Maharaj’s battles against the Mughal empire and his enduring legacy.

A Legacy Worth Celebrating

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, one of India’s most revered historical figures, played a pivotal role in challenging Mughal dominance and shaping the Maratha Empire.

The film aims to celebrate his achievements and inspire audiences with his story of resilience, strategy, and leadership.

As Singh puts it, “This isn’t just a film – it’s a battle cry to honor a warrior who fought against all odds, challenged the might of the Mighty Mughal empire, and forged a legacy that can never be forgotten.”