Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

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Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
File:Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Part 1.jpg


Theatrical release poster

Directed by Tushar Shelar
Written by Sandeep Mohitepatil
Sudhir Nikam
Produced by Shekhar Mohitepatil
Saujanya Nikam
Dharmendra Bora
Ketanraje Bhosale
Starring Template:Plainlist
Cinematography Mahesh Aney
Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

[[File:|250x250px|frameless|center]]

Visual effects by Chirag Bhuva
Edited by Shiva Bayappa
Music by Mohit Kulkarni





Country India
Language Marathi



Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (Template:Translation) is a 2024 Indian Marathi-language epic historical war film directed by Tushar Shelar and produced by Shekhar Mohitepatil, Saujanya Nikam, Dharmendra Bora, and Ketanraje Bhosale under Urvita Productions.[1][2] It features Thakur Anoop Singh in the title role[3] alongside Amruta Khanvilkar, Pradeep Rawat, Sanjay Khapre, Bhargavi Chirmule, Kamlesh Sawant, Kishori Shahane and Raj Zutshi in pivotal roles.[4][5] Set against the backdrop of 17th century, it is a romanticised fictional portrayal of the life of Sambhaji, as he defends the Maratha Empire and Hindu faith against the Mughal Empire, showcasing his bravery, tactical genius, and unwavering spirit, solidifying his legacy as a revered protector of his people and culture.

The film was officially announced in January 2023, and its principal photography began in the latter half of the same year. The shooting took place sporadically throughout the year, with filming conducted in the interiors of Maharashtra to capture the region's authentic essence. Mohit Kulkarni composed the film's music, while cinematographer Mahesh Aney handled the cinematography and Chirag Bhuva helmed the visual effects.

The film was theatrically released in Marathi on 22 November 2024, followed by its Hindi version on 29 November 2024, and received positive reviews from critics, who praised its direction, performances, and production values.[6][7] The film has grossed over Template:INRConvert–Template:INRConvert worldwide, emerging as the fifth highest grossing Marathi film of 2024.[8]

Cast

Template:Cast listing

Production

Following the grand success of the Marathi film Sarsenapati Hambirrao, Urvita Productions announced Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, in January 2023, marking the studio's second major production.[9][10] Principal photography took place at Rajwada in Bhor, Jaoli village, and Vijaydurg Fort, with the first schedule of filming completed in November 2023, followed by the start of the second schedule in December.[11] Initially, details about the cast were kept highly confidential. However, in August 2023, Thakur Anoop Singh was cast in the role of the legendary Maratha warrior, and speaking about the opportunity, he described it as a lifetime honor, stating, "Getting to play the role of Sambhaji Maharaj was a lifetime opportunity; not many actors have had the chance to portray such characters. I consider this a blessing."[12] In May 2024, it was revealed that Thakur Anoop Singh, Amruta Khanvilkar, and Kishori Shahane would play the lead roles, with this film marking the first time Shahane has portrayed a historical character in her thirty-seven-year career.[13][14]

Soundtrack

The soundtrack album is composed by Mohit Kulkarni. On November 4, 2024, the much-anticipated title track was released in both Marathi and Hindi languages, showcasing the bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice, symbolizing the valiant spirit of the king.[15][16] The second single, "Vaat Pahe Shambhuraya" was released on 11 November 2024, featuring Khanvilkar and Singh, with vocals by Shreya Ghoshal and choreography by Omkar Mane in both languages.[17] The song beautifully captures the love, devotion, and historical bond between the two characters.[18] Template:Track listing

Template:Track listing

Template:Track listing

Marketing and release

On the occasion of Sambhaji Maharaj's birth anniversary, on 14 May 2024, the first look poster of the movie featuring Singh's character was unveiled in a grand event in Pune organized by Suryoday Pratishthan, led by Navnath Pathare Patil, in the presence of thousands of devotees of Chhatrapati.[13][10] Character reveals began on the first day of Navaratri, starting with Khanvilkar’s portrayal of Maharani Yesubai in a yellow saree and traditional Maharashtrian jewelry, praying before a Shivling, followed by Shahane’s portrayal of Jijamata in a green saree holding a child wrapped in orange cloth,[19] and Chimule as Dharamata, seated with a toddler and teaching him to wield a sword and shield.[20] Other key characters, including Saibai Bhonsale, Soyarabai Bhonsale, Kondaji Farzand, Rajaram Maharaj, the Mavalas and the Siddhis, were also revealed during this period.[14]

Initially scheduled for release on 15 November 2024, the film was later postponed by a week, with the official teaser, launched on 11 October 2024, offered a glimpse of Singh in character and announcing the new release date of 22 November.[21][22] The much-awaited trailer of 2 minutes 36 seconds was released in both Hindi and Marathi on 12 November 2024, during a grand launch event at PVR, City Mall, Mumbai.[23] The event was attended by the film's cast and crew, including Thakur Anoop Singh, Pradeep Rawat, Bhargavi Chirmule, Amruta Khanvilkar, Anand Pimpalkar, all four producers, and Pens Studios founder Jayantilal Gada.[6] A day before the trailer launch, producer Sandeep Mohitepatil met with Udayanraje Bhosale and MLA Shivendrasinh Raje Bhosale, members of the Chhatrapati family, to give them a special preview of the trailer. The trailer received a positive response from the audience, generating anticipation for the film’s release.[24] The film's Marathi version was released on 22 November 2024, while the Hindi version followed a week later on 29 November 2024.[25] On 25 November, a special screening was held for Udayanraje Bhosale and his family at their residence in Jal Mandir Palace, Satara. Rajmata Kalpanaraje Bhonsale remarked, "A wonderful film has been made. This film is not only good, but the actors have also added much to it. Everyone has played their characters well." Maharani Damayanti Udayanraje Bhonsale added, "The film's direction, dialogues, acting, proper use of VFX, and many other aspects have made this film even better."[26]

Controversy and challenges

Upon its release, the film received a positive response from audiences, especially in Maharashtra. However, it faced challenges due to limited screen allocation following the release of big-budget films like the pan-India Pushpa 2: The Rule. Reports emerged indicating that theaters prioritized commercial blockbusters, leaving minimal or no slots for the film.[27] In response to this issue, Swati Pisal, the president of Astha Social Organization, stated that a joint meeting was held with Radhika Panhal, president of Manav Parivartan Vikas Multipurpose Charitable Organization, Anil Gharal of Maratha Federation, Rajendra Mane, Jaibhau Suryavanshi of Shiv Sena, and others. Pisal mentioned that a statement would be submitted to the Chief Minister, Provincial Officer, and Superintendent of Police. She described the situation as "very shameful and regrettable for progressive Maharashtra."[28]

On 9 December 2024, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) issued a stern warning to the management of Miraj Ashok Anil Cinemas in Ulhasnagar, threatening to halt all shows at the theater if Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was not scheduled, as the theater had not screened a single show of the film. MNS leaders, including district president Bandu Deshmukh and city president Sanjay Ghuge, protested outside the theater, accusing it of sidelining the film while allocating 15 daily shows to Pushpa 2 and a single show to The Sabarmati Report.[29] Following these protests, the theater management assured the party that the film would be given slots within two days. The controversy highlighted ongoing issues of unequal screen distribution, especially for regional and historical films, sparking a wider debate about the need for fair opportunities for Marathi cinema.[30]

Reception

Critical response

Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj has received positive reviews from both critics and audiences, who have praised the performances, grandeur, story, writing and VFX, although some critics have criticized its lengthy runtime.[31]

Mudit Bhatnagar of Times Now praised the film for its visuals, sets, costumes, and strong performances, particularly the tension between Sambhaji and Aurangzeb, stating, "It offers a respectable portrayal of a legendary figure. While it has its flaws, it succeeds in telling an important story with heart and sincerity." He gave the film three stars out of five.[32] In his review for Sakal, Santosh Bhingarde awarded the film four out of five stars, commending its overall execution. He wrote, "It seems that director Tushar Shelar has done a lot of research while presenting this heroic story. The important events in the life of Sambhaji Maharaj have been carefully considered. Maharaj's courage, his bravery and his loyalty and sacrifice have been told how inspiring it is to the present generation."[33] Keerti Kadam of Cinebuster described it as "a sincere attempt to honour the legacy" and wrote, "The film’s strengths lie in its sincere attempt to honour the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, stunning visuals, and commendable performances." She also pointed out its drawbacks, including "inconsistent pacing and a lack of emotional exploration, particularly in Sambhaji and Yesubai’s personal life," and rated the film 3.5 stars.[34]

Accolades

Awards Year Category Recipient Result Ref
International Iconic Awards Marathi 2024 Best Versatile Actress Kishori Shahane Template:Won [35]
Filmfare Awards Marathi 2025 Best Production Design Vijay Mahamulkar Template:Nom [36]
Best Costume Design Ganesh Lonare Template:Nom
Maharashtra State Film Awards 2026 Best Music Mohit Kulkarni Template:Pending [37]
Best Costume Design Ganesh Lonare Template:Won
Best Make-up Santosh Gilbile Template:Won

References

  1. ↑ 'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज', मराठीसह 5 भाषांमध्ये प्रदर्शित होणार. LetsUpp(2024-05-16). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  2. ↑ Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Movie Story - Rang Marathi(2024-10-19). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  3. ↑ Photos: अभिनेत्याने शेअर केले 'शेर संभाजी' चित्रपटाच्या सेटवरील अनसीन फोटो. Loksatta(2024-11-07). Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  4. ↑ Amruta Khanvilkar: चंद्रमुखीचा नवा लूक,'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज' मध्ये साकारणार 'महाराणी येसूबाई भोसले'ची भूमिका, Choudhary, Manasvi. Marathi News Saam TV(2024-10-04). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  5. ↑ Chhaava: 'छावा' से पहले बड़े पर्दे पर दिखेगी संभाजी महाराज की ये कहानी, विक्की कौशल की फिल्म को होगा नुकसान?. Amar Ujala. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपति संभाजी महाराज' का ट्रेलर हुआ आउट, NavbharatLive. Navabharat(2024-11-12). Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  7. ↑ Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj : 'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज'च, ढोले, जगदीश. marathi.abplive.com(2024-11-13). Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  8. ↑ 2024 मध्ये सर्वाधिक कमाई केलेले 10 मराठी चित्रपट तुम्हाला माहिती आहेत काय?. ETV Bharat News(2024-12-15). Retrieved 2024-12-21.
  9. ↑ Dharmarakshak Mahaveer chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj मध्ये आनंद पिंपळकर दिसणार कृष्णशास्त्री पंडित यांच्या दमदार भूमिकेत; लूक आला समोर, Choudhary, Manasvi. Marathi News Saam TV(2024-10-23). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj | Pune News, namratasandbhor. पोलीसनामा (Policenama)(2024-05-16). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  11. ↑ अभिनेता ठाकूर अनुप सिंग साकारतोय संभाजी महाराजांची भूमिका, विजयदुर्ग गडावरील खास शूट केले शेअर, Navarashtra. Navarashtra(2024-11-05). Retrieved 2024-11-05.
  12. ↑ Anoop Singh on playing historic leaders like Sambhaji Maharaj, Dhritarashtra & others. Mid-day(2024-12-09). Retrieved 2025-02-13.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 "धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज" चित्रपट लवकरच येणार प्रेक्षकांच्या भेटीला! Chhatrapati Sambhaji maharaj Jayanti Dharmakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj movie is coming soon. Marathi Jagran(14 May 2024). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 New Poster Of Dharmakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Part 1 Out. News18. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
  15. ↑ छत्रपती संभाजी महाराजांची वीर गाथा सांगणारं 'राजं संभाजी' गाणं ऐकलंत का ?, Navarashtra. Navarashtra(2024-11-04). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  16. ↑ छत्रपती संभाजी महाराजांची वीर गाथा उलगडणारं 'राजं संभाजी' गाणं प्रेक्षकांच्या भेटीस, narayan, kimaya. Marathi News Esakal(2024-11-05). Retrieved 2024-11-05.
  17. ↑ Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj | Song - Jiya Jaye Na. The Times of India. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  18. ↑ पाहा अमृता खानविलकरचे महाराणी येसूबाई यांच्या भूमिकेतील फोटो. Loksatta(2024-11-12). Retrieved 2024-11-12.
  19. ↑ किशोरी शहाणेंची मृणाल कुलकर्णींना टक्कर, जिजाऊंच्या भूमिकेतील पहिला Look समोर, तुम्हाला कोण आवडलं?. news18marathi.com(4 November 2024). Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  20. ↑ Amruta Stars as Maharani Yesubai in 'Dharmarakshak Mahavir Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj', Karale, Neelam. The Bridge Chronicle(2024-10-04). Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  21. ↑ Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Teaser:संभाजी महाराज की दहाड़ से कांप उठे दुश्मन | News Track in Hindi, Tiwari, Shikha. newstrack.com(2024-10-11). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  22. ↑ 'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज' चित्रपटाचा रोमांचकारी टिझर प्रेक्षकांच्या भेटीला. LetsUpp(2024-10-11). Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  23. ↑ 'धर्म, गोमाता धोक्यात येते तेव्हा हिंदूना शस्त्र...' छ. संभाजी महाराजांच्या जीवनावर मराठी सिनेमा. Maharashtra Times. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  24. ↑ Akshay Kumar Aithraaz-2 | वीस वर्षांनंतर ऐतराजचा सीक्वल; सुभाष घईंची मोठी घोषणा, शिकलगार, स्वालिया न. Pudhari News(2024-11-13). Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  25. ↑ Latest Marathi Movie : 'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज-भाग १' सिनेमाला प्रेक्षकांचा उत्स्फूर्त प्रतिसाद, narayan, kimaya. Marathi News Esakal(2024-11-30). Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  26. ↑ श्रीमंत छत्रपती उदयनराजे भोसलेंनी सहकुटूंब पाहिला 'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज' सिनेमा ; कौतुक करत म्हणाले..., narayan, kimaya. Marathi News Esakal(2024-11-27). Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  27. ↑ 'पुष्पा २'साठी मराठी चित्रपटांना ब्रेक? धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज चित्रपटालाही फटका. Maharashtra Times. Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  28. ↑ Marathi Movies : '...तर दाक्षिणात्‍य चित्रपट बंद पाडणार'; धर्मरक्षक संभाजी महाराज चित्रपट बदलल्‍याचे पडसाद, टीम, सकाळ डिजिटल. Marathi News Esakal(2024-12-07). Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  29. ↑ .. तर थिएटरची एकही काच शिल्लक राहणार नाही ; मनसेनं भरला दम, Marathi, TV9. TV9 Marathi(2024-12-10). Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  30. ↑ Dharmarakshak Sambhaji Maharaj: 'धर्मरक्षक संभाजी महाराज' चित्रपट लावला नाही तर...मनसे आक्रमक, थेट दिला इशारा, दुधाणे, अजय. Marathi News Saam TV(2024-12-10). Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  31. ↑ "आम्हाला माफ करा महाराज", छत्रपती संभाजी महाराजांचे बलिदान पाहून तरुणीचे अश्रू अनावर, चित्रपटगृहात ढसाढसा रडू लागली अन्…, पाहा VIDEO. Loksatta(2024-11-29). Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  32. ↑ Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Movie Review: A Grand Tribute To Fearless King. Times Now(2024-11-22). Retrieved 2024-12-17.
  33. ↑ Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Sambhaji Maharaj Review : महावीरांच्या शौर्याची गाथा; धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज, Bhingarde, Santosh. Marathi News Esakal(2024-11-23). Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  34. ↑ Review : Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj – Part 1 : Sincere attempt to honour the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj!. CineBuster(2024-11-23). Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  35. ↑ Winners IIA – Marathi – International Iconic Awards. Retrieved 2025-09-27.
  36. ↑ Nominations for The Filmfare Awards Marathi 2025: Full List Out | Filmfare.com. www.filmfare.com. Retrieved 2025-07-05.
  37. ↑ 62nd Maharashtra State Marathi Film Awards nominations list announced. Kalakruti Media(2024-02-08). Retrieved 2024-11-03.
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