Hyderabad: As Maharashtra marks Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti on February 19, 2026, tributes are pouring in for the legendary warrior-king who founded the Maratha Empire and reshaped Indian history through courage, strategy, and visionary leadership. Beyond history books and folklore, Shivaji Maharaj’s life has been immortalized across decades of Indian cinema and television, with several actors taking on the challenging task of portraying the iconic ruler on screen.
The Earliest Portrayals on Screen
One of the earliest cinematic depictions of Shivaji Maharaj appeared in Sinhagad, directed by V. Shantaram. Released in 1933, the film focused on valor and sacrifice during Maratha resistance, portraying Shivaji Maharaj as a guiding force behind his warriors. The role was played by Ganpat G. Shinde, making him one of the first actors to bring the Maratha king to the silver screen.
The Most Iconic Early Performance
A defining portrayal came nearly two decades later in the 1952 Marathi classic Chhatrapati Shivaji, directed by Bhalji Pendharkar. The film presented a comprehensive narrative of Shivaji Maharaj’s life and legacy and featured Chandrakant Mandhane in the lead role.
Mandhane’s commanding screen presence, dignified portrayal, and powerful dialogue delivery left a lasting impression. For generations of viewers, his performance became the visual image most closely associated with Shivaji Maharaj, setting a benchmark for all future portrayals.
Modern Interpretations in Film and Television
In recent years, the character has been revisited with renewed historical detail and cinematic scale. Actor Chinmay Mandlekar earned widespread praise for his portrayal of Shivaji Maharaj in historical films such as Farzand (2018) and Fatteshikast (2019), where he brought emotional depth, political insight, and battlefield intensity to the role.
On television, Shivaji Maharaj reached millions of households through serials like Raja Shivchhatrapati, with actor Sharad Ponkshe portraying the king in his later years. His performance was noted for its gravitas and philosophical tone, emphasizing the ruler’s administrative wisdom and moral strength.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
From early black-and-white cinema to modern high-budget historical epics, portrayals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj have evolved with time, technology, and storytelling styles. Yet, the essence remains unchanged — a fearless leader, a just ruler, and a symbol of Swarajya.
As Maharashtra and admirers across the world celebrate Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti in 2026, these onscreen portrayals stand as a reminder of how cinema continues to keep the legacy of the great Maratha king alive for new generations.