Sairat actor Akash Thosar to portray Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Bal Shivaji

Sairat star Akash Thosar is set to play Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the upcoming Marathi film Bal Shivaji.

The film was announced on Tuesday on the occasion of the 349th anniversary of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as the king of Maratha Swaraj. The first look of the film was also unveiled on the occasion.

The film, directed by Ravi Jadhav, will capture the adolescent years of the courageous Maratha warrior king, revealing gripping and compelling details that transpired in his life from the time he turned 12 to the age of 16.

Talking about the film, Jadhav said, “My film will show the invaluable contribution made by Chhatrapatti Shivaji Maharaj's parents, Jijamata and Shahaji Raje Bhosale, building a strong foundation for him as a child. How from a young age his skills were sharpened as a warrior and a ruler. I worked on the script for nine years and am now all charged up to execute my vision on screen.”

"This is the first time that I will be making a historical film as a director. Sandeep Singh understood the significance of telling the tale of valour. Akash Thosar was our unanimous choice to play the lead in the film. He has the regal look and the personality to play the young king. I am impressed with his enthusiasm and keenness to essay the role."

The film will hit the floor by this year end and be shot extensively all over Maharashtra. Bal Shivaji is being produced by Sandeep Singh, Sam Khan, Ravi Jadhav, Vishal Gurnani, Juhi Parekh Mehta and Abhishek Vyas under the banner of Legend Studios, AVS Studios and Ravi Jadhav Films.