Riteish Deshmukh’s historical drama Raja Shivaji has finally hit theatres, and early reactions indicate a strong, impactful reception. The film also directed by Riteish, sees him playing the titular role. ‘Raja Shivaji’ also stars Genelia Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan among others. On Friday morning, trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared his review on X (formerly Twitter), awarding the film an impressive 4-star rating.Praising the film, he described it as a fitting homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and lauded Riteish for his work behind the camera. “#RajaShivaji is a grand cinematic salute to the indomitable spirit, courage, and vision of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj… This epic blends spectacle with soul, narrating a story that resonates deeply with pride and patriotism,” Adarsh wrote.He further acknowledged the challenge of handling such a significant historical subject, adding, “Handling a subject of such monumental importance is no easy task, but director #RiteishDeshmukh rises to the occasion with remarkable confidence and conviction… His storytelling is immersive, his vision crystal-clear, and his execution nothing short of spectacular.”Adarsh didn’t just stop at the direction, he also highlighted Riteish’s performance along with the other actors. Ajay-Atul’s music also has received great applause. He added, “As an actor too, Riteish is phenomenal – delivering his career-best performance… He portrays Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with dignity, strength, and emotional depth. The music by #AjayAtul is a towering pillar of the film… The anthem is goosebumps-inducing, while #JaiShivrai is another triumph, reaffirming their mastery... Their background score elevates every emotion, every battle cry, every moment of triumph.”“Now to the performances: #SanjayDutt [brilliant – among his finest works], #AbhishekBachchan [in superb form – adds weight to the proceedings], #VidyaBalan [outstanding – her acidic one-liners land perfectly], #Bhagyashree [stunning – an absolute delight], #JitendraJoshi [first-rate – sure to grab attention], #AmoleGupte [excellent – a complete natural], #SachinKhedekar [solid – thoroughly convincing], #BomanIrani [effective in a brief role], and #GeneliaDeshmukh [super – complements the narrative beautifully]... In fact, the ensemble cast delivers across the board,” he said further. Summing up his verdict, Adarsh wrote, “#RajaShivaji is a cinematic triumph – a film that makes you feel proud, emotional, and inspired… A grand spectacle, a MUST-WATCH for every #Indian!”Another user said, “#RajaShivajiReview : ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 A Glorious Tribute, Yet a Decent Flick” #RajaShivaji Gives a grand tribute to Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj ji but the screenplay of the movie is just too AVERAGE, The Direction of Ritesh Deshmukh is Decent and Praiseworthy on some sequences. #RiteshDeshmukh as Shivaji Maharaj is a Hit and Miss for me, though his acting and performance is Top Notch, His dedication is fairly visible on screen. Abhishek as Sambhaji shahji Bhosle Ji is an EPIC MISCAST, Sanjay Dutt is still looking like SP Aslam, Rest of the cast did decent. The SOUL of the MOVIE IS AJAY ATUL, My God the BGM is electrifying and PURE GOOSEBUMPS, They elevate the normal sequences into MAYHEM.” He added, “The film chronicles the formative years of Shivaji Maharaj, spotlighting his vision of Swarajya and his resistance against dominant powers of the era. As the founder of the Maratha Empire in western India, he carved out an independent kingdom by taking on both the Deccan Sultanates and the Mughal Empire. Among his notable military achievements were the 1663 raid on Pune targeting Mughal general Shaista Khan, which dented Mughal authority, and the 1664 sack of Surat, a strategic blow to imperial trade.” Fans largely felt that Ajay-Atul’s music is one of the major highlights of the film. “Best thing in movie was Ajay Atul BGM Music everytime Shivaji Maharaj was shown ..Goosebumps,” said a user. The internet has also loved Salman Khan’s cameo in the film. ‘Raja Shivaji’ is also expected to get a great opening day number, for a Marathi movie. It will largely also benefit out of the Maharashtra day holiday today.