Rishab Shetty’s ‘The Pride of Bharat’ Becomes T-Series Two-Part Epic

T-Series backs “The Pride of Bharat” as a two‑part saga

India’s leading music and film studio T-Series has officially taken on the ambitious historical project titled “The Pride of Bharat – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj”. The venture, produced by Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar, will be split into two separate films, allowing the makers to explore the Maratha king’s life in greater depth.

Who is Rishab Shetty and his rise

Rishab Shetty, best known for his breakout performance in the Kannada blockbuster Kantara, has become a household name across South Indian cinema. After winning the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada, Shetty earned a reputation for blending raw storytelling with strong cultural roots. His casting as Shivaji Maharaj signals a strategic move to pair a fresh, critically acclaimed actor with a revered historical figure.

Production details and timeline

The film will commence principal photography in early 2027. Shooting locations are expected to include historic forts in Maharashtra such as Raigad and Pratapgad, as well as specially constructed sets that recreate 17th‑century battlefields. The two‑part structure gives the director, Sandeep Singh, room to depict both Shivaji’s early rise and his later consolidation of power.

Casting and crew

Alongside Shetty, the ensemble cast will feature seasoned actors from various Indian film industries. Notable names include:

Veteran Marathi actor Prasad Oak as Shivaji’s trusted advisor.
Actress Radhika Apte portraying Jijabai, Shivaji’s mother.
Pan‑India star Vicky Kaushal in a pivotal antagonist role.

Renowned cinematographer T-Series will oversee visual storytelling, while music composer Amit Trivedi is slated to create a score that blends traditional Maharashtrian folk with contemporary orchestration.

Filming schedule and locations

Key phases of production include:

Location scouting and set construction (Q1‑Q2 2027).
Principal photography across forts, villages, and studio sets (Q3‑Q4 2027).
Post‑production and visual effects work (2028).
Release of the first part in late 2029, followed by the second part in early 2030.

Authorities from the Maharashtra tourism department have already expressed support, noting the potential boost to heritage tourism.

Historical significance of Shivaji Maharaj on screen

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj remains one of India’s most celebrated rulers, known for pioneering guerrilla warfare and establishing a sovereign Maratha empire. His legacy has been revisited in cinema several times, but few projects have attempted a comprehensive biographical treatment.

Previous portrayals and audience expectations

Films such as “Swaraj” (2022) and the Marathi classic “Me Shivaji Raje” offered limited snapshots of his life. Audiences now anticipate a more nuanced narrative that balances heroic exploits with personal struggles. Film historian Wikipedia’s entry on Shivaji highlights his diplomatic acumen, an aspect that could enrich the screenplay.

Business implications for T-Series and Indian cinema

By investing in a large‑scale historical drama, T-Series diversifies its portfolio beyond music and contemporary entertainment. The two‑part format mirrors successful franchises such as “Baahubali” and “RRR”, which demonstrated strong box‑office returns for epic storytelling.

Market potential and distribution

With a projected budget exceeding ₹300 crore, the project aims for a pan‑Indian release in multiple languages, including Hindi, Marathi, Kannada, and Tamil. The studio plans to leverage its extensive distribution network to secure screens in both domestic and overseas markets, targeting the sizable Indian diaspora.

Domestic theatrical revenue: anticipated ₹500 crore.
Digital streaming rights: early negotiations with major platforms.
Merchandising and music sales: expected to add significant ancillary income.

Industry analysts from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry predict that high‑budget epics can generate sustained revenue streams when paired with strategic marketing.

What fans can anticipate

Early teasers suggest a visual style that blends gritty realism with grandiose set pieces. Expect meticulously choreographed battle sequences, authentic period costumes, and a soundtrack that weaves traditional Marathi instruments into modern arrangements.

Shetty’s preparation reportedly includes intensive study of Shivaji’s letters, visits to historic forts, and consultation with historians from the Government of Maharashtra. This dedication hints at a performance that honors the king’s strategic brilliance while humanizing his personal journey.

Fans of historical cinema should also look forward to:

Authentic depictions of 17th‑century Maratha warfare tactics.
Exploration of Shivaji’s relationship with his mother, Jijabai.
Insights into his administrative reforms and naval innovations.

As production ramps up, T-Series has promised regular behind‑the‑scenes updates, allowing audiences to engage with the creative process from the outset.

The collaboration between a celebrated actor, an ambitious studio, and a storied historical figure sets the stage for what could become a defining moment in Indian cinema.