The whole world is familiar with the heroic saga of the great patriot, efficient administrator, and the mighty Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire, was born on 19 February 1630 in Shivneri fort. This fort is in Junnar village near Pune in Maharashtra. His mother, Jijabai, was very religious. She used to tell stories of heroism to Shivaji in his childhood. It had an impact on Shivaji’s life. Shivaji believed that first the nation, then the guru, then the parents, then the place of God. Toran was the first fort conquered by Shivaji as a Maratha chieftain. By achieving this victory at the age of only 16, he had shown indomitable courage. It is believed that he gave tough competition to the Mughals in the strategy of guerrilla warfare. Films were made on his heroic story in many languages.

Shivaji Maharaj

Let us see how Shivaji Maharaj has been introduced in the film world and when?

Chhatrapati Shivaji

Actor Chandrakant played the role of Shivaji in the Marathi film Chhatrapati Shivaji, released in 1952. Produced by Prabhakar Pictures, the music of this black and white film was given by C Ramachandra. The Marathi film Chhatrapati Shivaji was the last film of Lata Mangeshkar as an actress. She also sang songs in it. This film was also dubbed in Hindi.

Bal Shivaji

In the year 1981, also the film Bal Shivaji was released for children. The film starred Anand Joshi, Janvi Khandekar, Manikraj, Bhalchandra Kulkarni, Bapusaheb Gawade, Nargis Bano, Ashawari, and Chandbibi in pivotal roles. The film Bal Shivaji, directed by Prabhakar Pendharkar, depicts how he commanded his army at 16 and overcame veteran warriors like Adilshah. This movie conveys that no age is too young to resolve to fight injustice.

Me Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy.

In 2009, Mahesh Manjrekar played the strong character of Shivaji Maharaj in Santosh Manjrekar-directed Me Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy. Actor Sachin Khedekar accompanied him in the lead role. The film’s story revolves around the life and troubles of Dinkar Bhosle. There comes a time when he starts thinking that being born in a Maratha family is the biggest drawback of his life. Meanwhile, a builder named Ramnik Gosalia wants to grab his ancestral bungalow.

Distressed by the builder, Dinkar breaks down completely and starts cursing himself. Then one night, Maharaj Shivajirao comes to meet him in a dream and says that the Maratha psyche itself is responsible for his misfortune. So before blaming others for your shortcomings, look inside yourself and see what you have done? The entire film is based on how Shivaji’s teachings bring about a change in Dinkar’s life. Also, the heroism of Shivaji Maharaj was praised in a song in the film.

Rajmata Jijau

Rajmata Jijau, directed by Yashwant Bhai Agar, released in the year 2011, is the story of Jijabai, mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This film reflects her teachings, values, bravery, and fighting skills. Also, it was Jijabai’s upbringing that made Chhatrapati Shivaji the great ruler. Dr. Smita Deshmukh as Jijau and Amol Kolhe also as Shivaji Raje was highly appreciated.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Before the first wave of Corona arrived, actor Riteish Deshmukh announced making a trilogy film Chhatrapati Shivaji. Nagraj Manjule of the film Sairat will direct it. Ritesh takes pride in playing the role of the great Maratha warrior. Its shooting is expected to start when the conditions become normal.

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