'Raja Shivaji' Review: Salman Khan's cameo in Riteish Deshmukh's film receives praise

Mumbai: The much-awaited historical action-drama  'Raja Shivaji' of Riteish Deshmukh was released in theatres on Friday. The film, which is a historical epic based on the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji, stars Riteish as Shivaji Maharaj and  Salman Khan also has a cameo as Jiva Mahala.   

What is the buzz?

The most anticipated film of 2026 in history, 'Raja Shivaji', finally hit theaters on Friday. Riteish Deshmukh's directorial has garnered widespread enthusiasm among audiences and critics. The film's release has sparked a flood of reactions on social media, with people hailing it as a historic milestone in Indian cinema. This saga of the establishment of Swarajya and the indomitable courage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is instilling a wave of patriotism in the hearts of audiences.

What about Salman Khan's cameo?

Salman Khan's cameo as Jiva Mahala in the climax is the most talked-about topic on social media. His appearance on screen has led to thunderous applause in theaters and thrilling thrills for fans. Riteish Deshmukh confirmed Salman's presence during Bigg Boss Marathi, which has now become a major highlight of the film. 

X users are praising the film and Salman Khan's portrayal of Jiva Mahala. 

One user wrote, "Salman Khan as Jiva Mahal in Raja Shivaji. Riteish Deshmukh delivers Salman Khan's intense screen presence. What a powerful cameo." 

Another user wrote, "Superstar Salman Khan's powerful cameo in Raja Shivaji. Wasn't expecting this." 

Riteish Deshmukh recently spoke about Salman Khan's cameo before the film's release, stating that "I didn't approach him with the film. We were together on New Year's. He asked when I was starting shooting. I said, 'This month'. He asked, 'Which role am I playing?'" 

The actor then explained that he hadn't planned a role for him. Salman replied, "No, no, no, you can't make the film without me. I have to be in it. I have to have a role in the film." 

"That sense of warmth and belonging, that emotion... I was thinking I hadn't really thought it through yet," Riteish shared.

Is the audience reaction positive?

The social media users are praising Riteish Deshmukh for the film, cast and performance. Many fans who watched the first-day first-show of the film shared their reactions on social media.

One user wrote, “Superstar Salman Khan's powerful cameo in Raja Shivaji,” with fire emoji.

Another user said, Ritesh Deshmukh really brings out Salman Khan's INTENSE SCREEN PRESENCE in this one."

One viewer shared that, Raja Shivaji a grand, emotionally charged spectacle that does justice to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Riteish Deshmukh is marvelous as an actor/director. 

Another viewer said, "Salman Khan Cameo In Raja Shivaji Is Talk Of The Town, Viral Videos Of HOOTING, CLAPPING And At Some Places Throwing MONEY. The Way Ritesh Deshmukh Presented Bhai is FABULOUS, Many A List Directors Have Failed It miserably In The Past."

What about the film 'Raja Shivaji'?

Directed by Riteish Deshmukh, 'Raja Shivaji' stars Genelia D'Souza, their 10-year-old son, Rahyl Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, and Jitendra Joshi. 

'Raja Shivaji' was released in theaters worldwide on Friday in Marathi, Hindi, and Telugu languages.