Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Part 1 (transl. Protector of the Faith, Great Warrior Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Part 1) 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] It narrates the courageous journey of historic warrior, 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.
| Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Part 1 | |
|---|---|
 Promotional poster | |
| Directed by | Tushar Shelar |
| Written by | Sandeep Mohitepatil Sudhir Nikam Ganesh Phuke Hrishikesh Zambre |
| Produced by | Shekhar Mohitepatil Saujanya Nikam Dharmendra Bora Ketanraje Bhosale |
| Starring | |
| Cinematography | Mahesh Aney |
| Visual effects by | Chirag Bhuva |
| Edited by | Shiva Bayappa |
| Music by | Mohit Kulkarni |
Production company | Urvita Productions |
Release date |
|
Running time | 174 minutes |
| Country | India |
| Language | Marathi |
| Box office | ₹9.01 crores |
It was theatrically released on 22 November 2024 in Marathi and Hindi languages.[6][7]
Cast
edit- Thakur Anoop Singh as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj,[8] the Maratha Empire's second ruler and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's eldest son. Known for his bravery and tactical skill, he defended the empire against the Mughals, symbolizing courage and sacrifice.
- Amruta Khanvilkar as Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale,[9] the devoted wife of Sambhaji known for her intelligence and leadership, played a vital role in supporting Sambhaji’s rule and managing the kingdom during turbulent times. After Jijabai, she became the Kulmuktyar of Swarajya.
- Kishori Shahane as Rajmata Jijausaheb Bhonsale,[10] the mother of Shivaji I, is known for her strength, wisdom, and leadership. Her influence continued through her grandson, Sambhaji, guiding him in his early years and playing a key role in the Maratha Empire’s rise and defense.[11]
- Bhargavi Chirmule as Dharaumata, the nursemaid from the Dhangar family of Pune, who played a crucial role in raising young Bal Shambhu Raje. She provided the maternal care and support that he needed during his early years, after the loss of his biological mother.
- Anand Pimpalkar as Guruji,[12] a notable scholar and astrologer, known for his contribution as an advisor in the Maratha court.
- Pallavi Vaidya as Maharani Saibai Bhonsale, the first wife of Shivaji I and biological mother of Sambhaji, known for her strength and devotion, played a crucial role in supporting her husband’s vision and nurturing their son, making her an important figure in Maratha history.
- Krutika Tulaskar as Maharani Soyarabai Bhonsale, the first wife of Shivaji I, biological mother of Rajaram I and stepmother of Sambhaji. After her husband's death, she became a key figure in the power struggle, especially during the succession dispute between her son and his cousin.
- Pradeep Rawat as Muqarrab Khan,[13] was a Mughal general known for his military skills and loyalty to Aurangzeb, playing a key role in battling the Marathas and suppressing their resistance.
- Raj Zutshi as Alamgir Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal Emperor, was known for his expansionist ambitions, strict Islamic policies, and efforts to suppress the Marathas, which ultimately contributed to the decline of the Mughal Empire.
- Ranjit Nikam as Siddhi Maulvi, a high-ranking general and influential leader of the Siddis, renowned for his naval expertise and strategic command of the Janjira fort, playing a pivotal role in the Maratha-Mughal conflicts.
- Sanjay Khapre as Sarsenapati Hambirrao Mohite, the Commander-in-Chief of the Maratha Empire under Shivaji I and later Sambhaji Maharaj.
- Anil Gawas as Bahirji Naik
- Ujjwal Chopra as Kavi Kalash
- Aarti Shinde as Salma
- Pradeep Kabra as Siddhi Kasam
- Kamlesh Sawant as Siddhi Khairiyat, a powerful and resilient leader, who commanded Janjira fort against Maratha forces, securing a legacy as a resilient and strategic figure in Deccan history.
- Prathamesh Katkar as Akbar
- Shraddha Shinde as Saraswati
- Trupti Rane as Laxmi
- Sheetal Patil as Durga
- Khushi Hajare as Sumi
- Kritika Velapure as Bhavani Sambhajiraje Bhosale, the eldest daughter of Sambhaji and Yesubai, known for her courage, strategic involvement in the empire's defense, and her strong leadership.
- Vineet Sharma as Kondaji Farzand, a prominent Maratha warrior and military leader often remembered for his significant role in several battles as a courageous and skillful leader, which helped to shape the Maratha forces.
- Swaraj Bhoite as Rajaram Maharaj, the younger son of Shivaji I, was a brave and determined leader who played a crucial role in preserving the Maratha Empire after the martyrdom of his elder brother, Sambhaji.
- Sandeep Mohitepatil as Maratha Mavala
- Rishank Mohite as Mavala
- Nitin Paygude as Mavala
- Shrihari Kale as Mavala
- Rajendra Bendre as Mavala
- Vishal Phale as Santaji Ghorpade, a legendary Maratha warrior and military commander, particularly famous for his strategic genius, bravery, and unwavering loyalty.
- Pramod Kale as Dadaji Deshpande
- Sachin Gawali as Giroji Baba
- Suraj Khan as Daulat Khan
- Amy Aela as Sakina
- Prashant Mohite
- Shivshankar Swami
- Dhanashri Kadam
- Mrunal Gaikwad
- Rahul Nevse
- Rahul Borole as Sardar
Production
editFollowing 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.[14][15] 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.[16] Initially, details about the cast were kept highly confidential, but 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.[17][18]
Soundtrack
editThe 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.[19][20] 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.[21] The song beautifully captures the love, devotion, and historical bond between the two characters.[22]
| No. | Title | Lyrics | Music | Singer(s) | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Raja Sambhaji - Title Track" | Hrishikesh Zambare | Mohit Kulkarni | Nandesh Umap | 4:20 |
| 2. | "Vaat Pahe Shambhuraya" | Dr. Prasad Biware | Mohit Kulkarni | Shreya Ghoshal | 5:25 |
| 3. | "Shambhurajyabhishek Geet" | Hrishikesh Zambare | Mohit Kulkarni | Jaydeep Vaidya | 2:19 |
| 4. | "Ram Setu" | Hrishikesh Zambare | Mohit Kulkarni | Janardan Dhatrak, Umesh Joshi, Vijay Dhuri, Vivek Naik, Devendra Chitnis, Santosh Bote, Siddhant Karawde, Mangesh Shirke, Anil Bhilare, Vidit Patankar | 3:44 |
| Total length: | 15:48 | ||||
| No. | Title | Lyrics | Music | Singer(s) | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Sher Sambhaji - Title Track" | Hrishikesh Zambare | Mohit Kulkarni | Divya Kumar | 3:59 |
| 2. | "Jiya Jaye Na" | Dr. Prasad Biware | Mohit Kulkarni | Shreya Ghoshal | 5:24 |
| 3. | "Marhaba" | Dr. Prasad Biware | Mohit Kulkarni | Sunidhi Chauhan | 2:52 |
| 4. | "Jai Jai Ram" | Hrishikesh Zambare | Mohit Kulkarni | Janardan Dhatrak, Umesh Joshi, Vijay Dhuri, Vivek Naik, Devendra Chitnis, Santosh Bote, Siddhant Karawde, Mangesh Shirke, Anil Bhilare, Vidit Patankar | 3:44 |
| Total length: | 15:59 | ||||
Marketing and release
editOn 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.[17][15] 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,[23] and Chimule as Dharamata, seated with a toddler and teaching him to wield a sword and shield.[24] Other key characters, including Saibai Bhonsale, Soyarabai Bhonsale, Kondaji Farzand, Rajaram Maharaj, the Mavalas and the Siddhis, were also revealed during this period.[18]
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.[25][26] 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.[27] 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.[28]
Reception
editCritical response
editMudit 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 awarded the film three stars out of five.[29]
References
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- ^ "Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Movie Story - Rang Marathi". 19 October 2024. Retrieved 4 November 2024.
- ^ "Photos: अभिनेत्याने शेअर केले 'शेर संभाजी' चित्रपटाच्या सेटवरील अनसीन फोटो". Loksatta (in Marathi). 7 November 2024. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Choudhary, Manasvi (4 October 2024). "Amruta Khanvilkar: चंद्रमुखीचा नवा लूक,'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज' मध्ये साकारणार 'महाराणी येसूबाई भोसले'ची भूमिका". Marathi News Saam TV (in Marathi). Retrieved 4 November 2024.
- ^ "Chhaava: 'छावा' से पहले बड़े पर्दे पर दिखेगी संभाजी महाराज की ये कहानी, विक्की कौशल की फिल्म को होगा नुकसान?". Amar Ujala (in Hindi). Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ a b NavbharatLive (12 November 2024). "'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपति संभाजी महाराज' का ट्रेलर हुआ आउट". Navabharat (in Hindi). Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ ढोले, जगदीश (13 November 2024). "Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj : 'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज'च". marathi.abplive.com (in Marathi). Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Tomar, Nancy. "Sambhaji Maharaj कौन? जिनपर बनी दो फिल्में आगे-पीछे होंगी रिलीज, Vicky Kaushal को नुकसान!". News24 Hindi (in Hindi). Retrieved 13 November 2024.
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- ^ "किशोरी शहाणेंची मृणाल कुलकर्णींना टक्कर, जिजाऊंच्या भूमिकेतील पहिला Look समोर, तुम्हाला कोण आवडलं?". news18marathi.com (in Marathi). Retrieved 4 November 2024.
- ^ Joshi, Pandit Shankar (1980). Chhatrapati Sambhaji, 1657-1689 A.D. S. Chand.
- ^ Marathi, TV9 (23 October 2024). "'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज'मध्ये हा कलाकार कृष्णशास्त्री पंडित यांच्या भूमिकेत". TV9 Marathi (in Marathi). Retrieved 4 November 2024.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "Powerful Trailer of Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj: Part 1 Released: A Cinematic Tribute to the Maratha Warrior - Morning Kashmir". 13 November 2024. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Choudhary, Manasvi (23 October 2024). "Dharmarakshak Mahaveer chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj मध्ये आनंद पिंपळकर दिसणार कृष्णशास्त्री पंडित यांच्या दमदार भूमिकेत; लूक आला समोर". Marathi News Saam TV (in Marathi). Retrieved 4 November 2024.
- ^ a b namratasandbhor (16 May 2024). "Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj | Pune News". पोलीसनामा (Policenama). Retrieved 4 November 2024.
- ^ Navarashtra (5 November 2024). "अभिनेता ठाकूर अनुप सिंग साकारतोय संभाजी महाराजांची भूमिका, विजयदुर्ग गडावरील खास शूट केले शेअर". Navarashtra (in Marathi). Retrieved 5 November 2024.
- ^ a b ""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 (in Marathi). 14 May 2024. Retrieved 4 November 2024.
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- ^ "Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj | Song - Jiya Jaye Na". The Times of India. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
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- ^ Karale, Neelam (4 October 2024). "Amruta Stars as Maharani Yesubai in 'Dharmarakshak Mahavir Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj'". The Bridge Chronicle. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Tiwari, Shikha (11 October 2024). "Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Teaser:संभाजी महाराज की दहाड़ से कांप उठे दुश्मन | News Track in Hindi". newstrack.com (in Hindi). Retrieved 4 November 2024.
- ^ Letsupp; Jadhav, Digambar (11 October 2024). "'धर्मरक्षक महावीर छत्रपती संभाजी महाराज' चित्रपटाचा रोमांचकारी टिझर प्रेक्षकांच्या भेटीला". LetsUpp (in Marathi). Retrieved 4 November 2024.
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- ^ शिकलगार, स्वालिया न (13 November 2024). "Akshay Kumar Aithraaz-2 | वीस वर्षांनंतर ऐतराजचा सीक्वल; सुभाष घईंची मोठी घोषणा". Pudhari News (in Marathi). Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ "Dharmarakshak Mahaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Movie Review: A Grand Tribute To Fearless King". Times Now. 22 November 2024. Retrieved 17 December 2024.