Riteish Deshmukh is all set to direct Raja Shivaji, a bilingual historical drama film based on the life of Maratha warrior-king Chhatrapati Shivaji, the 45-year-old actor announced on Monday via a concept poster on Instagram.

As per the official synopsis, the Hindi and Marathi-language film would document Shivaji’s rise following the decline of the Adilshahi Sultanate of Bijapur.

The actor-director wrote in the caption that the upcoming venture would fulfil his “deepest aspiration to immortalise the awe-inspiring journey of the legend on the grand canvas of cinema”.

“In the annals of history, there emerges a figure who transcends mere mortal existence—a legend, an icon, an eternal flame of inspiration. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not a mere historical figure; he is an emotion, a timeless saga of valor, and a beacon of hope that has illuminated hearts for over three and a half centuries,” Riteish also mentioned in the post, which also features the upcoming film’s title track Yudha Dharm, Dharm Yudha.

Billed as a journey of epic proportions, Raja Shivaji would chronicle the adventures of the fearless rebel who “defied the invincible and conquered hearts sparking the flames of Swarajya”. Raja Shivaji will mark Riteish’s second directorial venture after 2022’s Marathi thriller Ved. The Case Toh Banta Hai actor will reportedly play the titular role in the film, in addition to directing it.

Jointly produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under the banners of Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company, Raja Shivaji is slated to hit theatres in 2025.