Riteish Deshmukh’s dream project, Raja Shivaji, is shaping up to be his biggest movie.

After onboarding Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Genelia Deshmukh, Riteish Deshmukh has roped in Vidya Balan for a prominent role in Raja Shivaji.

A source close to the development told Pinkvilla, “Vidya is very excited to be a part of a film that tells one of the bravest chapters of Indian History. It was an instant yes from her end to come on board Raja Shivaji, and Riteish too is ecstatic to direct a talent like Vidya in his directorial venture.”

© Instagram/Riteish Deshmukh

According to the source, Vidya has already completed her look test for the film and is expected to join the shoot in the next couple of weeks.

“It’s a key role, and warranted the presence of a strong actor. And reaching out to Vidya was a no-brainer for Riteish too. The shooting for Raja Shivaji is going on in full swing and the makers are committed to bring it to the spectacle on May 1, 2026,” added the source.

“The tale of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had to come from the heartland of Maharashtra. It’s not just a film, but a feeling for the entire team and they are committed to come up with an honest and sincere take on the life of Raja Shivaji,” concluded the source.

© Instagram/Riteish Deshmukh

Earlier this year, Riteish Deshmukh joined forces with Jio Studios to bring his long-cherished dream project, Raja Shivaji, to life.

Marking a significant milestone in his career, the actor isn’t just portraying the iconic Maratha warrior on screen but is also stepping behind the camera to direct the ambitious historical epic. With Raja Shivaji, Riteish aims to offer audiences a grand cinematic tribute to one of India’s greatest leaders, blending passion, purpose, and personal vision into what promises to be a landmark film in Indian cinema.