Dhirendra Shastri Tenders Apology After Riteish Deshmukh Objects To Controversial Statement On Shivaji Maharaj

Mumbai: Actor-filmmaker Riteish Deshmukh has issued a strong reaction to recent comments made by spiritual orator Dhirendra Shastri regarding Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This reaction comes at a time when Riteish himself is gearing up to release a grand film based on the life of Shivaji Maharaj. Notably, Riteish Deshmukh—who considers himself a staunch devotee of Shivaji Maharaj—was so deeply hurt by these remarks that he took to social media to sternly call out the 'Baba' (Shastri).

What did Riteish Deshmukh say?

Riteish Deshmukh posted a message in Marathi on his social media account, 'X'. Expressing his indignation, he wrote,"when someone makes such fabricated and derogatory remarks about our revered deity, it is only natural for the blood of a 'Shiv-bhakt' (devotee of Shivaji) to be angry."

Riteish stated in unequivocal terms, "Such futile attempts to belittle the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj will not be tolerated under any circumstances. No one can simply come along and spout such nonsense."

The actor further wrote, "Such futile attempts to confine him within limited boundaries will eventually fade into the mists of time. However, just as the Sahyadri mountain ranges have stood for millions of years, so too shall 'that' name remain immortal for millions of years to come. And that name is... Pratap Purandar... Kshatriya Kul-Bhushan... Lord of the Throne... Emperor of Emperors... The Blessed Rajshiv Chhatrapati Maharaj."

What did Dhirendra Shastri say?

The entire controversy originated at an event in Nagpur, where spiritual orator Dhirendra Shastri claimed that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had become completely exhausted from constantly waging wars. In his speech, the Baba stated, "One day, the Maharaj went to his Guru, Ramdas Swami, placed his crown at his feet, and said, 'I no longer wish to fight; I am utterly exhausted. Please take charge of this kingdom yourself.'" This specific claim by the Baba is being viewed as a distortion of history, as followers of Shivaji Maharaj maintain that he never once admitted defeat, nor did he ever become 'exhausted.'

Was an Apology Tendered by Dhirendra Shastri?

Meanwhile, Dhirendra Shastri has offered an apology regarding this entire controversy. The spiritual orator stated, "Since yesterday, certain individuals on social media have misrepresented my statement. We feel deep sorrow and regret over this. Today, if any Sanatani remains alive in this country—and is dedicated to the cause of Hindutva—the greatest credit for this goes to Chhatrapati Veer Shivaji Maharaj. We are pained by the fact that those who revere Chhatrapati Veer Shivaji are, in fact, our own people. We, too, place our faith in Chhatrapati Shivaji, just as they do. If we engage in infighting among ourselves, it will merely provide an opportunity for others to exploit the situation... If anyone has been hurt by this, we offer our heartfelt apologies."

What About Riteish Deshmukh's Career?

On the work front, Riteish Deshmukh is currently busy with preparations for the release of his historical film, 'Raja Shivaji'. In this film, he himself portrays the central character of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The movie is scheduled to hit theaters on May 1st; it will chronicle the Maharaj's early life and his struggle to establish 'Swarajya' (self-rule).