The trailer of ‘Raja Shivaji’, headlined by Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh, was unveiled at a grand event in Mumbai, marking a significant family milestone. The couple’s 10-year-old son, Rahyl Deshmukh, makes his acting debut in the historical drama, portraying the younger version of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. 

Directed by Riteish Deshmukh, who also essays the titular role, the film brings together history, emotion and spectacle. Genelia Deshmukh appears as Shivaji Maharaj’s wife, Saibai, while the film features a large ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Vidya Balan and Abhishek Bachchan.

Trailer showcases rise of a warrior king

The trailer opens with a young Shivaji speaking about swarajya, offering a glimpse into his early life and ideals. It then transitions into the journey of the Maratha leader as a warrior king, highlighting his battles against the Mughal and Adil Shahi forces in his quest to establish self-rule.

Rich in historical detail and rooted in Maratha pride, the film aims to chronicle the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj, combining large-scale action with emotional storytelling.

Rahyl steps into the spotlight

Born in 2016, Rahyl Deshmukh is the younger son of the couple, with elder brother Riaan born in 2014. The siblings have often drawn attention online for their polite demeanour, frequently greeting photographers with folded hands.

Rahyl’s debut marks a notable moment for the Deshmukh family, though Riteish had earlier emphasised that his children would be free to choose their own paths. “It’s totally up to them what they want to become in their lives. It’s their choice. As parents, we should not decide what our children should become. I want my kids to decide their future.”

Riteish Deshmukh’s decade-long journey

Speaking at the trailer launch, Riteish Deshmukh reflected on the long and challenging road to bringing the film to life.

“It's been 10 years... I first wanted to play Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 2016, but it didn't happen. Then I tried again, and COVID happened,” he said, becoming emotional. “It felt like Shivaji Maharaj was telling me, ‘Wait, my child... it's not the right time.'”

He also expressed gratitude to his collaborators, “I am very thankful to Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan and the entire team of Raja Shivaji who decided to become a part of this movie. Abhishek stood with me like a brother.”

Genelia’s support at the core

Riteish credited Genelia Deshmukh for standing by him through the years of uncertainty and effort behind the project.

“Dreaming is not a big deal... anyone can dream,” he said. “But having someone who stands by you while you are dreaming... that is Genelia. Someone who believed in me, someone who made this dream a reality... that is Genelia,” he added, as Genelia was seen getting emotional during the event.

About ‘Raja Shivaji’

Produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under Mumbai Film Company and presented by Jio Studios, ‘Raja Shivaji’ brings together a wide cast including Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi and Amole Gupte.

The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 1.