Amid festive crowds at Shivneri Fort, Riteish Deshmukh paid homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his birth anniversary. The actor, dressed in white and flanked by security, sought blessings at the historic site where the Maratha warrior was born in 1630.

Deshmukh posed for photographs with locals and police officers. He shared light moments with women and children dressed as Jijabai, Shivaji’s mother, and the young Shivaji himself. The group snapped pictures together under clear skies.

Speaking to ANI, Deshmukh extended greetings to Shivaji devotees. “I extend my best wishes to all the devotees of Lord Shiva on Shiv Jayanti,” he said. “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj continues to inspire us and energize our spirits. The youth should learn about the sacrifices he made for the nation. We should all strive to be good human beings.”

Deshmukh sidestepped questions about his upcoming directorial project. “It’s not the right time to discuss movies,” he told reporters.

The visit comes as Deshmukh juggles shoots for his film Raja Shivaji and hosting duties on Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6. He has called Shivaji more than a historical figure—an emotion. Directing the biopic represents both privilege and responsibility, Deshmukh has said previously.

Set for release on Maharashtra Day, May 1, 2026, Raja Shivaji will screen in Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. Deshmukh returns to directing after his 2022 debut Ved. Actress Genelia D’Souza, his wife, joins him again in the project.

Shivneri Fort, perched in the Sahyadri hills about 90 kilometers north of Pune, draws thousands each year for Shivaji Jayanti. The 17th-century king founded the Maratha Empire, challenging Mughal dominance through guerrilla tactics and administrative reforms. His legacy endures in Maharashtra culture, with Jayanti celebrations featuring processions, cultural programs and fort pilgrimages.

Deshmukh, a vocal Shivaji admirer from a prominent political family—his father is former Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh—often invokes the ruler’s ideals. The actor’s trip highlights his personal connection to the icon, blending celebrity with cultural reverence.

Video footage from the event shows Deshmukh handling stone steps and temple areas, greeting well-wishers. Police managed crowds to ensure smooth access during peak festivities.