Raja Shivaji: Who Was Saibai Bhonsale? Real Story Of Genelia Deshmukh's Character

Riteish

Deshmukh’s dream project, Raja Shivaji, is about to release in theatres. The story of the Maratha emperor will be painted with royal shades on the silver screen canvas. Showcasing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s journey from childhood, youth to ruling the Maratha empire, the film is an ode to his legacy and valour. Raja Shivaji promises to be deeply embedded in history with facts presented with utmost responsibility and accuracy. Besides Shivaji Maharaj, the movie celebrates the contribution of his family members, including his first wife, Saibai Bhonsale. Genelia Deshmukh plays the role of Saibai in Raja Shivaji.

Who was Saibai Bhonsale?

Saibai was Shivaji’s most trusted and close companion. Born to Mudhojirao Naik Nimbalkar and Reubai in the Nimbalkar empire, her family took over Phaltan territory from the Yadava Dynasty. She was Phaltan’s 16th ruler, Bajaj Rao’s sister. Belonging to a royal clan, Saibai was blessed with beauty and the virtues of a warrior.

Saibai married Shivray early. As per reports, she was only ten when they tied the knot. Jijabai, Shivaji’s mother, wanted a wife for her son who also qualified in court management, besides possessing warrior skills. After marriage, she became Shivaji’s favourite. Saibai was wise, loyal, and affectionate. She stood by him like the strongest pillar during his fight for Swarajya. Not just his wife, Saibai was also her husband’s personal counsel.

Shivaji and Saibai's wedding

Shivaji and Saibai’s wedding wasn’t attended by his father, Shahaji Raje Bhonsale, as he was living with his second wife, Tukabai, in Bangalore. Shivray’s brothers, Shambu and Ekoji, also couldn’t be a part. Later, he organised a grand ceremony for his son and daughter-in-law. Saibai and Shivaji had three children: son Sambhaji and daughters Ambikabai, Ranubai, and Sakavarbai. Remembered as the queen of the Maratha empire, Saibai stepped out in her husband’s absence to hold the fort. With Jijabai’s guidance, she became the in-charge of the kingdom when Shivray was trapped by the Mughal at Panhala. She was his right-hand.

Saibai death

Saibai died young. According to reports, she was just 26 years old. Sambhaji couldn’t experience his mother’s love and warmth as she died soon after giving birth to him. Reportedly, she passed in 1659 CE on Rajgad Fort. Sambhaji was reportedly 2 and a half years old when he lost his mother. It is said that she developed health complications after his birth. After Saibai’s death, Shivaji’s second wife, Soyrabai, took authority. But, she could never fill the void that the emperor felt post losing his beloved partner. As per reports, Shivaji’s last word on his deathbed was ‘Sai’.

Saibai is among the most celebrated and revered queens in Maratha history. While Marathi television has showcased her story in various shows, Raja Shivaji will be a big-screen ode to her.

About Raja Shivaji

Headlined and helmed by Riteish Deshmukh, who also serves as the film’s writer and producer, Raja Shivaji celebrates the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Raja Shivaji brings together an ensemble including Sanjay Dutt as Afzal Khan, Abhishek Bachchan as Sambhaji Shahaji Maharaj (Shivaji Maharaj's brother), Sachin Khedekar as Shahaji Raje Bhosale, Bhagyashree as Jijabai, Vidya Balan as Badi Begum (Adilshah's wife), Fardeen Khan as Shah Jahan, Jitendra Joshi as Pant, and Amol Gupte as Adilshah. Raja Shivaji is produced by Mumbai Film Company and presented by Jio Studios. It will released in cinemas worldwide on May 1, 2026, in Marathi and Hindi.