Riteish Deshmukh Reveals Salman Khan Insisted on Joining Raja Shivaji: 'You Can't Make the Film Without Me' Riteish Deshmukh, director and lead actor of the historical drama Raja Shivaji, shared insights into how Salman Khan secured a role in the film. The movie, a saga about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is set to release tomorrow. Deshmukh revealed that Salman Khan did not initially approach him for the project but insisted on joining after learning about the shoot’s start date. During a recent Marathi chat, Deshmukh recounted the moment Salman expressed his desire to be part of the film. Deshmukh explained that he had not considered Salman for the role initially. “I didn’t go to him for this film,” he said, recalling their meeting during New Year’s. Salman, curious about the project, asked when filming would begin. Deshmukh told him the shoot was starting that month and inquired about Salman’s potential role. Salman responded with urgency, stating, “No, no, no… you can’t make the film without me. I have to be in it.” Deshmukh described the moment as deeply moving, noting how Salman’s insistence made him realize the importance of the role. This was not the first time Salman Khan had collaborated with Deshmukh. The actor had previously appeared in Deshmukh’s Marathi film Lai Bhaari, where he requested a scene. Deshmukh shared how Salman had been eager to participate even before the project was finalized. “When I did Lai Bhaari, Salman Khan was in it. At the time, he requested, ‘I want to do a scene.’” Similarly, during the production of Ved, Salman had agreed to meet Deshmukh without hesitation. “When I was working on Ved, I called him and said, ‘Brother, I want to meet you.’ He said, ‘Done!’ I said, ‘When?’ He said, ‘For which role? You want to meet—it’s done.#salman_khan #jio_studios #riteish_deshmukh #raja_shivaji #mumbai_film_company
Salman Khan's Cameo in 'Raja Shivaji' Sparks Fan Excitement Salman Khan is set to make a cameo appearance in Riteesh Deshmukh's historical film Raja Shivaji, which is scheduled to release on May 1, 2026. The film, which portrays the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has already generated significant buzz, particularly due to the actor's portrayal of a Marathi warrior in traditional attire. Fans have expressed excitement over the visual details, including Khan's depiction in a gherua kurta and turban, accompanied by a dramatic dialogue that has gone viral. The scene, which features Khan holding a sword and delivering the line, "Shivaji nahi; Shivaji raja mhanayacha," has been widely shared on social media, with audiences reacting with applause and clapping in theaters. The collaboration between Deshmukh and Khan began with a unique exchange. According to reports, Deshmukh revealed that Khan had approached him directly about joining the project. During a meeting, Khan inquired about the film's shooting schedule and his role, insisting, "I have to be part of this film." Deshmukh recounted the interaction, stating that Khan's determination to participate despite the lack of a predefined role for him ultimately led to his inclusion. The director noted that Khan's enthusiasm and connection to the historical narrative were pivotal in securing his involvement. The film, which aims to revive Shivaji Maharaj's legacy, has been praised for its attention to historical detail and emotional depth. Deshmukh, known for his work on epic narratives, has crafted a story that balances action with the cultural significance of Shivaji's reign. The film's release is anticipated to be a commercial success, with projections suggesting it could earn around 10 crores at the box office.#salman_khan #raja_shivaji #riteesh_deshmukh #shivaji_maharaj #marathi_garb
Salman Khan's Persistence Secures Cameo in Riteesh Deshmukh's 'Raja Shivaji' Riteesh Deshmukh's historical epic 'Raja Shivaji,' based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, is set to release on May 1, 2026, and has already generated significant buzz in Maharashtra. The film, which features a star-studded cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, and Vidya Balan, is expected to dominate the box office. However, the most talked-about aspect of the project is Salman Khan's cameo appearance, which was secured through the actor's unwavering insistence. Deshmukh revealed that Salman Khan had been determined to be part of the film even before a role was confirmed for him. During a conversation with the media, Deshmukh recounted how Salman had previously collaborated with him on films like 'Ved' and 'Lai Hai Bhai.' He explained that Salman had expressed a desire to work with him again, emphasizing that the project was essential for him. "He said, 'You can't make this film without me. I have to be part of it,' " Deshmukh shared. Despite the lack of a defined role, Salman's passion for the project led to his inclusion. The casting process for 'Raja Shivaji' was unique, as Deshmukh noted that Salman had not approached him directly. Instead, Salman had reached out to Deshmukh after learning about the film's production schedule. "He asked when the shoot would start, and when I told him it was scheduled for this month, he insisted on being part of it," Deshmukh explained. Salman's determination to be part of the film, even without a specific role, ultimately led to his cameo. The film's release coincides with Maharashtra Day, a significant cultural event in the state. With advance bookings already generating an estimated 3 crores, the film is poised for a strong opening.#sanjay_dutt #salman_khan #raja_shivaji #maharashtra_day #riteesh_deshmukh
CBFC Clears Riteish Deshmukh’s Raja Shivaji With Two Cuts, Child Violence Scene Replaced The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has approved Riteish Deshmukh’s historical drama Raja Shivaji, clearing the film for release with two specific cuts. The board mandated revisions to a scene involving child violence and requested additional documentation to ensure compliance with censorship guidelines. The film, set to premiere on 1 May 2026, has undergone a thorough review process, with the certification finalized on 24 April 2026. The CBFC’s advisory included replacing a scene depicting the execution of a young boy, which was deemed inappropriate for the film’s intended audience. In its place, the board required a revised sequence that aligns with the film’s narrative without violating content standards. Additionally, the board directed the filmmakers to add voiceovers to scenes that lacked audio, ensuring clarity and contextual depth. The certification process also demanded the submission of detailed documentation. The filmmakers were required to provide explanations for the film’s title choice, clarify historical references used in the plot, and submit a script that matches the film’s dialogue and musical elements. These measures aim to address potential ambiguities in the film’s portrayal of historical events and ensure transparency in its narrative structure. The film’s production team, led by Riteish Deshmukh, faced further instructions to incorporate specific dates for key events depicted in the story. The board also requested textual overlays for historical scenes, enhancing viewers’ understanding of the film’s context. These adjustments reflect the CBFC’s emphasis on balancing artistic expression with societal responsibility.#sanjay_dutt #central_board_of_film_certification #riteish_deshmukh #raja_shivaji #janelia_deshmukh
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Celebrates 19th Wedding Anniversary with Abhishek Bachchan and Daughter Aaradhya Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan marked their 19th wedding anniversary by sharing a heartfelt photo with their daughter, Aaradhya Bachchan. The couple, who married on April 20, 2007, celebrated the milestone with a series of candid images showcasing their family bond. Aishwarya posted a selfie with Abhishek and Aaradhya, capturing the trio in a relaxed and joyful setting. The photo, shared on social media, quickly garnered widespread praise and well-wishes from fans and followers. The couple’s wedding ceremony in 2007 was noted for its intimate yet grandeur style, held at their Mumbai residence. Abhishek was recently spotted in the city attending the trailer launch of Riteish Deshmukh’s film Raja Shivaji, where he wore a blue bandhgala suit. Aishwarya, meanwhile, was seen in a white kurta holding a bouquet of flowers, maintaining her signature elegance. Netizens flooded the comments section with affectionate messages, including compliments like “Happy Anniversary Queen And King” and “Happy Anniversary to the loveliest couple.” In a recent podcast with Lilly Singh, Abhishek reflected on the dynamics of his marriage, emphasizing the importance of partnership and mutual respect. He clarified that traditional gender roles have never influenced their relationship, stating, “I have never been the kind of person who believes that somebody else will have to give up or stop running for me to win that race.” He also shared his perspective on his upbringing, noting that his parents’ marriage—where his mother was a more prominent star than his father—normalized the idea of equality in relationships.#shah_rukh_khan #abhishek_bachchan #aishwarya_rai_bachchan #aaradhya_bachchan #raja_shivaji
