Following a successful and critically acclaimed theatrical run, the Marathi feature film Khalid Ke Shivaji has officially made its digital debut. The movie is now streaming worldwide on premium streaming platforms, including Apple TV OTT, BookMyShow Stream (OTT), and YouTube Movies.
However, the digital release has reignited pushback from conservative groups. The Hindu Mahasangh has raised objections over the film’s core themes, demanding an immediate ban on its streaming broadcast.
A Grounded Narrative from Vidarbha
Directed by Raj Pritam More and written by Kailash Waghmare, the film stands out for its strong regional authenticity.
Local Flavor: Shot extensively across Vidarbha in Nagpur, Akola, and Amravati, the film beautifully captures the distinct, melodic nuances of the authentic Varhadi language.
Talent Showcase: The project leans heavily on its supporting cast, providing a global platform for a large number of budding local actors and theater artists from the Vidarbha region.
The Lead Cast: The movie features power-packed performances from established Marathi cinema staples, including Priyadarshan Jadhav, Bharat Ganeshpure, Sushma Deshpande, Kailash Waghmare, and Snehlata Tagade.
The Plot: An Innocent Search for Identity
At its heart, Khalid Ke Shivaji is a sensitive social drama that explores complex societal layers through the innocent lens of childhood:
The story follows Khalid, a young Muslim schoolboy who becomes the unwitting target of religious bullying when his classmates tease him by calling him ‘Afzal Khan.’ Confused and deeply affected by the growing social and religious alienation around him, Khalid embarks on a personal quest for answers.
His journey leads him to discover the historical legacy, true values, and inclusive philosophies of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. By learning about the legendary ruler’s actual principles, Khalid attempts to understand the concepts of equality, humanity, and mutual respect, countering the prejudices embedded in the modern social system.
Director’s Vision
Marking his directorial debut in Marathi cinema, Raj Pritam More shared his gratitude and the deeper intent behind the narrative:
“‘Khalid Ke Shivaji’ is my first Marathi film, and I worked hard for two to three years to bring this vision to life. I am incredibly happy that the film is now accessible to a worldwide audience on Apple TV, BookMyShow, and YouTube Movies. I am immensely thankful to producer Michael Thevar and the entire team for believing in me, and I will always cherish the love and support extended to us by the people of Akola during our shoot.”
-
-
-
-
