First multi-lingual animated movie on Shivaji

For the first time, a full length animated film on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, an icon of Maharashtra, will be released in Marathi for audiences in the state Aug 2.

The founder of the Maratha Empire at the height of the Moghul rule lived between 1627-80, and was crowned Chhatrapati in 1674 in his capital Raigad.

A master war strategist, Chhatrapati Shivaji is revered over almost four centuries for his able administration, shrewd politics and as a just ruler in the state and country.

The animated movie has been directed by Azhar Khan and Anand Singh through their company Aman Anam Productions, and titled "Chhatrapati Shivaji - The Emperor of People's Pride".

The movie story, screenplay and dialogues are penned jointly by the trio of Azhar Khan, Jagmohan Kapoor and Kartikey Tiwari and dwells on all major aspects of the warrior king's life and influences, his wars with the Moghuls and other historical events spanning from his childhood to death.

The lyrics penned by Kartikey Tiwari and Anandu have been composed in music by Ram Gautam and Kartikey Tiwari and sung by Kailash Kher, Javed Ali, Sadhana Sargam, Madhushree and Sanjivani Amey.

In order to capture a larger audience, the movie has been dubbed in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu for whom it will be released simultaneously.

Chhatrapati Shivaji has inspired several generations of politicians, political leaders and the people of the state.

In fact, the state's leading political party Shiv Sena was founded by the late Bal Thackeray in Mumbai, based on Chhatrapati Shivaji's ideals.