Kannada actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty is at the center of controversy following the announcement of his latest project, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. While the project, helmed by Bollywood filmmaker Sandeep Singh, promises grandeur and action to match the legacy of the Maratha warrior, a section of Shetty’s fans in Karnataka is unhappy, leading to calls for boycotts and heated debates on social media.
The Announcement That Sparked Outrage
Shetty took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce the film with an impassioned message:
“Our Honour & Privilege, Presenting the Epic Saga of India’s Greatest Warrior King – The Pride of Bharat: #ChhatrapatiShivajiMaharaj. This isn’t just a film – it’s a battle cry to honor a warrior who fought against all odds, challenged the mighty Mughal empire, and forged a legacy that can never be forgotten.”
The film, scheduled for release in January 2027, has already drawn attention for its scale and ambition. However, it seems to have alienated a section of his core Kannada audience, who expected him to champion the stories of Karnataka’s own historical icons.
Why the Backlash?
Critics argue that Shetty, a beloved figure in Karnataka, should have prioritized historical figures from his home state over a Maratha ruler. Karnataka boasts a rich history, with celebrated dynasties like the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagara Empire, along with freedom fighters like Kittur Rani Chennamma and Sangolli Rayanna. Many fans feel their stories remain underrepresented in cinema.
One disappointed fan wrote on X:
“The Kadambas, Chalukyas, The Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Kings, Mysuru Kings – crying in their graves today. Dr. Rajkumar, who brought Mayura Varma and Krishna Devaraya to life, is also crying in his grave now.”
Another netizen criticized Shetty’s choice, suggesting it reflects a broader trend of Kannada stars prioritizing pan-Indian narratives over local ones:
“It’s clear now that Kannada stars no longer see Karnataka as their priority. Kannadigas should also start favoring local films over dubbed movies from other languages.”
Boycott Calls Gain Momentum
The backlash intensified with some users outright rejecting the movie.
“Kannadigas don’t want this movie; we will boycott it. Shivaji’s contributions to Karnataka are minimal, and his army had generals from various backgrounds. How can he be a savior of Hindus?”
Others accused Shetty of aligning with certain political ideologies, suggesting his choice reflects a broader agenda. A tweet read:
“Rishab Shetty is aligning himself with a particular political ecosystem, possibly for future business or political ambitions. What about the countless Kannada kings who shaped our heritage?”
Defense From the Makers
Despite the uproar, director Sandeep Singh has stood by his decision to cast Shetty. In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, he said:
“Rishab Shetty was my first and only choice for the role. He truly embodies the strength, spirit, and valor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This film has been my dream for many years, and I’m honored to bring this story to the silver screen.”
Singh also emphasized the film’s scale and vision, promising unparalleled action and visuals to take Indian cinema global.
The Larger Debate
This controversy has sparked broader conversations about the responsibility of regional stars in representing their heritage. While pan-Indian films like Kantara have showcased Shetty’s ability to weave local traditions into gripping narratives, critics argue that his move towards a Marathi-centric story could alienate his base.
Will the Backlash Hurt the Film?
Despite the criticism, Shetty’s star power and the film’s ambitious scope may draw audiences across India. However, the question remains: will the discontent in Karnataka overshadow the project’s success in Shetty’s home state?
As the dust settles, this episode highlights a growing divide between regional pride and pan-Indian aspirations in cinema. For now, Shetty must navigate the challenging task of balancing these competing narratives while ensuring the film lives up to its lofty promises.
