Shahid Kapoor's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj biopic gets shelved; director Amit Rai slams the system, calls it ‘cruel'

Bollywood might not be synonymous with biopics, but when it does make one, it makes it with style, scale, and no shortage of drama. From kings and freedom fighters to poets and reformers, the industry has always handled historical narratives with grandeur, caution—and yes, a touch of creative liberty.

After the roaring success of OMG 2, director Amit Rai was gearing up for a massive project: a biopic on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, with Shahid Kapoor in the lead. The excitement was understandable—the film had all the makings of a historical epic that could stir both emotion and patriotism.

But as with every story, there’s a twist. And unfortunately, this one isn’t pleasant.

The much-anticipated film has officially been shelved. Confirming the news to Mid-Day, Amit Rai described the biopic as “one of his biggest and most ambitious” works. But despite his passion, it seems the film won’t be making it to theatres—disappointing news for history film lovers everywhere.

So, what happened?

Rai didn’t hold back. In what felt like part confession, part protest, he expressed deep frustration with the filmmaking ecosystem. “The system is absolutely cruel,” he said. A director might live with a story for five years—and it takes just five minutes for someone to reject it with a red pen, pointing out what’s ‘wrong’ with it.”

Rather than walk away, Rai has decided to take full control of his next project by producing it himself. He has support from Hungarian cinematographer Máté Herba and motion-capture expert Isaac Hamon. OMG 2’s Pankaj Tripathi is already on board, and Akshay Kumar has expressed interest as well.

The Shivaji biopic may not happen—but Amit Rai’s storytelling journey is far from over.
*This news has been published on Times of India on 23rd July 2025

 

 

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