Raja Shivaji: Riteish Deshmukh defends Wagh Nakh scene, says watch the film
Actor Riteish Deshmukh responded to criticism over a scene in Raja Shivaji's trailer after users questioned its historical accuracy. He urged audiences to watch the film on May 1 before forming an opinion.
Raja Shivaji responded to criticism over Wagh Nakh scene. (Credit: Movie Trailer)
New Delhi,UPDATED: Apr 23, 2026 09:36 IST
Riteish Deshmukh has addressed criticism regarding a scene in the trailer of his film, Raja Shivaji. The scene features the actor alongside his co-star Sanjay Dutt and the Wagh Nakh (tiger claw). Some social media users have claimed the trailer distorts historical facts about legendary Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
A user on X questioned the historical accuracy of the scene where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is showing the Wagh Nakh to Afzal Khan, the general of the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur Sultanate. The user argued that the Wagh Nakh was actually concealed and was never shown to Khan before the attack. They accused Riteish, who has directed, co-written and acted in the film, of manipulating the history and legacy of Maharashtra.
Actor's response
Riteish responded to the critique by urging them to watch the full film upon its release on May 1. The actor added that he hopes that viewers would enjoy the movie with their loved ones and signed off the post with "Jai Shivrai."
More about the Raja Shivaji film
The trailer launch of Raja Shivaji on April 20 in Mumbai was an emotional event, particularly for actor Genelia Deshmukh. She was moved to tears as her husband Riteish recounted the challenges faced in making the film. The event witnessed Riteish expressing gratitude to his team for supporting his vision.
Addressing the media, the actor thanked his team for standing by him throughout the journey. Genelia, standing beside him, was visibly touched by his words and broke down on stage. Photos and videos from the event showed her emotional response. At one point, Riteish paused to recognise her, spoke in Marathi and called her his greatest support.
Raja Shivaji features a star-studded cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Genelia herself. Salman Khan will also make a cameo in the film. However, the details of his role have been kept under wraps.
The film narrates the story of the legendary Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and focusses on his battles to protect the Maratha empire. It is set to release in theatres in both Marathi and Hindi on May 1.
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