The film marks Bachchan's debut in Marathi cinema, a significant addition to his filmography. It also brings him into a project that has been years in the making for Deshmukh, who directs the film. Bachchan will be seen portraying Sambhaji Shahaji Raje Bhosle, with the teaser showcasing him in a warrior's avatar against a grand historical backdrop.

Recalling how their friendship began, Bachchan said it dates back over two decades. "Riteish, whom I considered to be my brother, has been dreaming about this from the first time that I ever met him, about 25 years ago in Latur," he said. "I was shooting there for a film of mine called Zameen, and Riteish was just coming into the film industry… and that's where our friendship began."

Over the years, the two actors have collaborated on multiple projects, but Raja Shivaji represents a more personal association. Bachchan shared that he had witnessed Deshmukh's ambition to move into direction and bring the story of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to the screen.

"This is a dream he's harboured and worked on for several years," Bachchan said. "Riteish has arguably made the most ambitious Marathi film to date. I have no doubt about the kind of director that he is. He's going to do something that is going to become a cornerstone for Marathi cinema."

Expressing his excitement about being part of the project, he added, "I'm so, so happy for him, so happy to be a part of it… I really think it's going to be a seminal moment for Marathi cinema."

Presented by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh, Raja Shivaji is set to release in cinemas in May in Marathi, Hindi and Telugu.