Vicky Kaushal praises ‘Raja Shivaji’ action after exclusive preview with Riteish Deshmukh

Actor Vicky Kaushal expressed strong admiration for Riteish Deshmukh’s upcoming film Raja Shivaji after watching an early glimpse. First, the two actors met for a special preview session. Then, they discussed the scale and vision behind the historical drama. As the footage played, Vicky reacted with visible excitement and praised the film’s action sequences.

During the interaction, Riteish shared moments from the shoot. He recalled how chants of “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai” echoed across the set and created an intense atmosphere. He said the energy of the crew helped him connect deeply with the role. Meanwhile, Vicky watched the visuals closely and responded with appreciation. He noted that Marathi cinema rarely showcases action on such a scale.

“I have not seen action like this in Marathi films,” Vicky said during the preview. He also extended his best wishes for the film’s release and praised the effort behind the project. His reaction quickly drew attention among fans, especially after his own success in historical storytelling.

The background adds weight to his endorsement. In 2025, Vicky portrayed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in Chhaava. The film performed strongly at the box office and earned critical acclaim. Audiences praised his intense performance and emotional depth. That success now connects directly with Raja Shivaji, which focuses on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, one of India’s most iconic figures.

On the ground, anticipation for Raja Shivaji continues to grow. Fans have started booking tickets ahead of its May 1 release. At the same time, conversations around the trailer remain mixed. Some viewers praised the scale and visuals. Others questioned casting choices and pointed out possible historical inconsistencies. Riteish’s look in the lead role also sparked debate across social media.

Despite the mixed reactions, the makers continue to push the film’s larger vision. The project features a multi-star cast, including Sanjay Dutt and Abhishek Bachchan in key roles. The film also introduces Riteish’s sons in early-life portrayals of Shivaji, adding a personal dimension to the production.

From a broader perspective, Raja Shivaji reflects a growing trend in Indian cinema. Filmmakers now revisit historical narratives with bigger budgets and wider appeal. Regional industries, especially Marathi cinema, aim to expand scale and reach. This film attempts to bridge that gap with high production value and action-driven storytelling.

As the release date approaches, industry attention remains fixed on audience response. Vicky’s endorsement adds momentum and raises expectations. However, the final verdict will depend on how viewers connect with both the story and its execution.

The film stands at a crucial point. It carries legacy, ambition, and scrutiny in equal measure. The coming days will decide whether it lives up to the promise that early reactions, like Vicky’s, have begun to build.