Sharad Kelkar to Mahesh Manjrekar: Actors Who Played the Role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj On-Screen

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is a key figure in Indian history whose life and journey have been a prominent subject of several films and shows. And a selective few actors have had the opportunity to play the prominent figure on the screens. From Mahesh Manjrekar to Sharad Kelkar, here are a few actors who stepped into the shoes of the legendary Maratha warrior king.

Mahesh Manjrekar – Me Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy (2009)
As Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahesh Manjrekar brought an experienced wisdom to justify the calm dedication and strategic tactics of the Maratha warrior. Released in 2009, the film delved into Shivaji Maharaj’s enduring legacy and its relevance in contemporary times.

Sharad Kelkar – Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020)
Sharad Kelkar’s dedicated outing as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior brought a wider audience to the portrayal of the Maratha king. Known for his versatile choice and intense conviction he always brings to his portrayals, the actor emphasised Maharaj’s strategic brilliance and unwavering resolve, cementing him as a powerhouse performer. The film’s success, earning more than Rs.350 crore at the box office, underscored Kelkar’s impactful portrayal of the legendary Maratha ruler.

Amol Kolhe – Raja Shivchhatrapati (2008)
Amol Kolhe impressed the audiences with his portrayal of Shivaji Maharaj in the Marathi television serial Raja Shivchhatrapati, directed by Hemant Devdhar. The actor’s portrayal connected deeply with the viewers, prompting a re-broadcast during the Covid-19 pandemic in April 2020.

Chinmay Mandlekar – Pawankhind (2022)
Chinmay Mandlekar, known for his intensity, infused his portrayal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with a deep sense of justice, bringing to the fore Shivaji’s military prowess and tactical genius to the fore in the 2022 release, Pawankhind.

These actors, beyond simply playing the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, brought incredible believability to their approach and won hearts by being the right fit!