Raja Shivaji Trailer Wins Applause from Akshay Kumar, Karan Johar & Other Celebs

The trailer of Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company's historical drama Raja Shivaji has struck a chord online since its launch on 20 April. Written, directed, produced and led by Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh, the film traces the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of Hindavi Swarajya, and celebrates the warrior king's vision, courage and nation-building spirit.

Raja Shivaji is scheduled to reach cinemas worldwide on 1 May 2026 in Marathi and Hindi, with a wide release planned across markets. The film is positioned as a large-scale historical epic, aiming to present key events from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's journey while balancing action, drama and emotion for both Hindi and Marathi-speaking audiences.

Raja Shivaji trailer wins praise from Bollywood and Marathi cinema

The packed trailer, driven by intense battle sequences and emotional moments, has triggered strong reactions from viewers and industry members alike. Celebrities from both Marathi and Hindi cinema have shared their support, highlighting the effort behind the film. Many have praised the scale of the production and the attempt to portray Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's story with wide appeal and detailed visual staging.

Akshay Kumar led early reactions with a message for Riteish Deshmukh, saying, "Massive shoutout to my friend, @riteishd for acting, writing, directing and producing Raja Shivaji... a story so deeply rooted in our history. It takes passion to dream it, and even more to bring it alive. Sundi... wishing you nothing but blockbuster success!" Filmmaker Karan Johar added his support, writing, "Superb!!!!! @riteishd @geneliad".

Raja Shivaji trailer reactions highlight star support

Celebrated filmmaker Nagraj Manjule responded succinctly to the Raja Shivaji trailer with, "Manapurvak abhinandan!! Bhaari!!" Director Aditya Sarpotdar spoke at length about the effort behind the project, noting, "Years of passion. A dream carried for a lifetime. So happy to see you finally bring this to life, @riteishd. A film on our great Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj truly deserves this scale and vision. The trailer is incredibly powerful and looks grand in every sense. This one is truly special. Congratulations team!"

Veteran director Subhash Ghai also shared detailed praise for the Raja Shivaji trailer. Ghai wrote, "Imagine if the trailer is so rocking - what will be the film. Just a magical experience in theatres …That's #RAJASHIVAJI. A film made by writer, director, actor #RITEISHDESHMUKH n produced by Jyoti Deshpande for Jio..so passionately with full of nationalistic energies. I can see 🤗 Genuinely supported by stars like Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan n the whole industry to see that it becomes an excellent film. Look forward to see this film soon. My blessings always."

Raja Shivaji cast, production and more industry reactions

Other filmmakers added their voices to the growing appreciation around Raja Shivaji. Director Kookie Gulati wrote, "This is just Incredible!! Blockbuster!!" while Milap Zaveri commented on the film's release plans, stating, "On 1st May, this will be a MAHA BLOCKBUSTER ALL OVER THE WORLD". The comments reflect confidence in the film's potential reach beyond regional audiences.

Actors from across industries also reacted to the Raja Shivaji trailer. Sonu Sood posted, "Wishing my brother @riteishd a stupendous success. This will be a blockbuster bhai. Every single frame shows your dedication and hardwork." Sonali Bendre said, "Congratulations @geneliad @riteishd & the entire team. The trailer looks amazing! Knowing how much went into this makes it even more special! All the very best!" Siddharth Jadhav shared, "Har Har Mahadev" while singer Abhijeet Sawant wrote, "Wow!!!! Jai Ho!" and director Kedar Shinde added, "Abhimaan…prem."

Actress Priya Bapat focused on Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh's commitment while reacting to the Raja Shivaji trailer. Bapat wrote, "@riteishd Have always known you as a wonderful actor, a true professional, and a deeply passionate storyteller. Can't wait to witness the incredible story of our Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj through your vision. And Genelia @geneliad, thank you for always backing inspiring stories and cinema. Can't wait to see your magical presence on the big screen. Heartiest congratulations...looking forward to watching it in theatres from May 1st."

Raja Shivaji brings together a cast featuring names from both Hindi and Marathi cinema, including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Boman Irani, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amol Gupte and Genelia Deshmukh, alongside Riteish Deshmukh in the central role. Presented by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under Mumbai Film Company, the film aims to present Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's story with large-scale visuals, emotional depth and strong performances when it releases on 1 May 2026.