Raja Shivaji is a historical drama that explores the formative years of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, emphasizing his quest for swarajya and his defiance against the Deccan Sultanates and the Mughal Empire. The film, directed by and featuring Riteish Deshmukh in the lead role, captures pivotal moments such as Shivaji's strategic raid on Pune and the sack of Surat, which significantly challenged Mughal authority. Deshmukh delivers a controlled and nuanced performance, avoiding theatrics to portray Shivaji's internal strength. The film excels in key scenes, particularly the confrontation with Afzal Khan, showcasing a blend of tension and drama. The supporting cast, including Sanjay Dutt as Afzal Khan and Abhishek Bachchan as Sambhaji, adds depth to the narrative. Technically, the film impresses with its cinematography, production design, and music by Ajay-Atul, which enhances emotional moments. However, the film's over three-hour runtime leads to pacing issues, particularly in the first half, where some scenes feel unnecessarily prolonged. Despite these flaws, Raja Shivaji stands out as a sincere and ambitious portrayal of an important historical figure, making it a worthwhile watch for audiences.