Riteish Deshmukh in Raja Shivaji to Vicky Kaushal in Chhaava: Actors Who Portrayed Maratha Warriors on Screen

Riteish Deshmukh stars in and directs the historical epic Raja Shivaji, set to release on May 1, 2026, on Maharashtra Day. A passion project for the actor, the film is written and produced by him under Mumbai Film Company in association with Jio Studios. Riteish plays Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, while Genelia Deshmukh appears as Maharani Saibai, and their sons Rahyl and Riaan portray the younger versions of Shivaji Maharaj. 

Chhaava (2025) is a grand historical action film starring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film is produced by Maddock Films and is based on a novel by Shivaji Sawant. It follows the fearless warrior’s battle against Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb and became a major commercial success, with Vicky Kaushal’s powerful performance receiving widespread praise. 

Sharad Kelkar delivered a powerful performance as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020). Despite limited screen time, his portrayal stood out for its strong screen presence and commanding voice, making it one of the most memorable depictions of the iconic Maratha king. 

In Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020), Ajay Devgn portrays the legendary Maratha warrior Tanaji Malusare, a trusted military leader of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Marking his 100th film, Devgn’s performance focuses on Tanaji’s courage and sacrifice during the 1670 Battle of Sinhagad, where he led the mission to reclaim the Kondhana fort from Mughal control, earning him the National Film Award for Best Actor. 

Ranveer Singh delivered one of the most transformative performances of his career as Peshwa Bajirao I in Bajirao Mastani (2015). Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film showcases the legendary Maratha warrior’s journey as he balances his responsibilities toward the empire with his deep love for Mastani, played by Deepika Padukone.