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Shahid Kapoor’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Film Shelved; Director Slams Industry’s ‘Cruel System’
ABP Live Entertainment | July 23, 2025 11:41 PM CST

A film based on the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, directed by OMG 2 filmmaker Amit Rai and set to star Shahid Kapoor, has been shelved. The project, which had been in development for five years, is no longer moving forward—prompting Rai to speak out against the systemic challenges faced by filmmakers.

Amit Rai on his film being shelved

“The system is so cruel. Even if you have proved your mettle with a R180 crore film [OMG 2], it’s not enough,” Rai told Mid-Day, expressing disappointment that success in the industry offers little security.

Though he didn’t reveal the exact reason behind the decision, Rai blamed the unpredictable functioning of the film industry. “How is a director supposed to work here, under these systems of casting, production, star, and management? You live with a story for five years, and within minutes, somebody writes a five-pager, pointing out what is wrong and what is right in the film,” he added.

About Shahid Kapoor film that is now shelved

The film was initially set to be produced by Telugu cinema heavyweight Dil Raju, with Kapoor in the lead. It was among the actor’s highly anticipated upcoming projects, alongside the now-delayed Ashwatthama.

Riteish Deshmukh's film on Shivaji

Meanwhile, Riteish Deshmukh is moving forward with his own Shivaji film titled Raja Shivaji. He will not only direct but also play the titular role. The film features an ensemble cast including Abhishek Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Mahesh Manjrekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Amole Gupte, Sachin Khedekar, and Genelia Deshmukh.

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Riteish Deshmukh (@riteishd)


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