Why Did Riteish Deshmukh's Raja Shivaji Mention Vicky Kaushal, Ajay Devgn Under 'Special Thanks' Section? EXPLAINED

The

historical epic Raja Shivaji has opened in cinemas on May 1 to strong buzz, especially in Maharashtra where audiences are going to the theatres in record numbers. Starring Riteish Deshmukh in the titular role, the film is being loved for its action, performances and of course, Salman Khan's cameo. For first day viewers, there was also a special surprise. Cinegoers were quick to notice the names of Ajay Devgn and Vicky Kaushal listed under the ‘Special Thanks’ section, sparking speculation about possible cameo appearances that, as it turns out, do not exist. So, why did Team Raja Shivaji thank them? Read on to know.

Why did Ajay Devgn, Vicky Kaushal get special thanks in Raja Shivaji?

As curiosity grew among moviegoers, many assumed that Ajay Devgn and Vicky Kaushal might appear in surprise roles in Raja Shivaji. However, both actors are not part of the film’s narrative. The real reason behind their mention is more about the film’s promotional campaign rather than its storyline.According to reports in Bollywood Hungama, Ajay Devgn and Vicky Kaushal collaborated with Riteish Deshmukh for special promotional videos created to support the film. These were shoulder content pieces designed to build anticipation and connect audiences with the historical significance of the story. Riteish was keen to involve the two actors because of their own association with iconic Maratha warrior roles in previous films.

Ajay Devgn famously portrayed Tanaji Malusare in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, a performance that was widely appreciated and celebrated. Meanwhile, Vicky Kaushal earned acclaim for playing Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in Chhaava last year. Given this connection to Maratha history, it made sense for them to lend their support to Raja Shivaji, where Riteish Deshmukh steps into the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.The actors reportedly agreed to be part of the promotional initiative without hesitation. Their decision was driven due to their friendship with Riteish and their desire to contribute to a film that pays tribute to one of India’s greatest warrior kings. As a gesture of appreciation, Riteish Deshmukh and the producers, including Jio Studios, decided to acknowledge Ajay Devgn and Vicky Kaushal in the ‘Special Thanks’ section. Interestingly, the promotional video featuring the two actors is yet to be released and is expected to drop soon.

More about Raja Shivaji

Raja Shivaji boasts a star-studded cast including Genelia Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Fardeen Khan, Bhagyashree, Sachin Khedekar, Amole Gupte and Jitendra Joshi. The film traces the journey of Shivaji from his birth to his rise as a leader determined to establish swarajya, overcoming immense challenges along the way. Our in-house reviewer gave the film a solid 3-star review.In the film, Shivaji - played by Rahyl Deshmukh and later Riteish Deshmukh, grows up with a powerful vision. He vows to his elder brother Shambhu Raje, portrayed in adulthood by Abhishek Bachchan, that he will establish swarajya and raise an independent saffron flag for the Marathas. However, the path to freedom is far from easy. Shivaji must overcome numerous challenges and adversaries before ultimately setting his sights on Afzal Khan, played by Sanjay Dutt.