Home / Entertainment / Bollywood News / Article /
Riteish Deshmukh responds to accusations of historical manipulation in his film Raja Shivaji
Updated On: 22 April, 2026 06:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Riteish Deshmukh responded to criticism over alleged historical inaccuracies in Raja Shivaji. A social media user questioned the portrayal of Shivaji Maharaj’s encounter with Afzal Khan

Stills from Raja Shivaji trailer
Riteish Deshmukh is currently gearing up for the release of his film Raja Shivaji, which he has directed, acted in, written, and produced. The film will be released in theatres on May 1. Earlier this week, the trailer of the film was launched, and netizens began to dissect the historical drama. One of the criticisms the film has faced is regarding a scene featuring Sanjay Dutt and Riteish Deshmukh. Dutt plays the role of Afzal Khan in the film.
Riteish Deshmukh reacts to accusation
An X user slammed Riteish Deshmukh for historical inaccuracies in the trailer of Raja Shivaji. The scene in question shows Riteish as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj confronting Afzal Khan using the Wagh Nakh (tiger claws), a well-known incident from the Maharaj’s life. Criticising the scene, the user wrote,
How do you like the new new mid-day.com experience? Share your feedback and help us improve.

