Actor-director Riteish Deshmukh has dismissed speculation that his historical action drama Raja Shivaji was made on a massive budget of Rs 100 crore, saying that only the producers know the actual figures.

The film, released in theatres on May 1, 2026, has been performing strongly in Marathi and maintaining steady interest in Hindi as well. However, reports circulating about its high production cost have sparked widespread discussion.

Responding to the claims, Deshmukh told Hindustan Times that discussing budgets is unnecessary for filmmakers. “About the figures floating around about Raja Shivaji's budget, only the producers know the real budget. The last thing we need to do as filmmakers is to discuss the budget of a film because it doesn't affect anything,” he said.

He further added, If someone asks me the budget, I ask them 'how much are you paying for a ticket to watch it?' They say 'Rs 100' or 'Rs 250-300'. I reply, that's the budget. One should stop talking about it. Let it be magical; you just go and experience the film.”

Recalling his childhood experience of watching films like Sholay, Deshmukh said audiences never used to focus on budgets or box office collections. ’ I just wanted to have the big-screen entertainment,” he said.

He also noted that constant discussion around actors’ fees and film budgets is a recent trend driven by the industry itself.

Backed by Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company, Raja Shivaji features an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Boman Irani, Amol Gupte and Genelia Deshmukh, with Salman Khan appearing in a cameo role.

The film portrays the early life of Shivaji Bhosale and his rise against dominant powers to establish Hindavi Swarajya.

Source: NDTV