February marks the month of many more glorious days apart from Valentine's Day. On February 19, we celebrate Shivaji Jayanti to relive his glory and lionheartedness. It was on this day that the great warrior was born to changed the entire course of Indian history.

Many Indian actors have played the role of Shivaji Maharaj, but it was Sharad Kelkar whose portrayal was loved by the masses.

With his baritone voice, a warrior posture, and channeling his inner Maratha, Sharad Kelkar did total justice to the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the film Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior. He has often talked about how the historic leader has been his inspiration in many ways.

On the occasion of Shivaji Jayanti 2024, let's take you back to the time when the actor opened up about playing his 'dream role' and how, after doing many movies, his portrayal of Chhatrapati is something that is still etched in people's minds.

Sharad Kelkar recalls playing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Tanhaji

The Ayalaan actor stepped into the shoes of the great warrior in the 2020 release, Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior. The film also featured Saif Ali Khan and Kajol in prominent roles.

Tanhaji marked Sharad Kelkar's one of the biggest hits of his career. In a chat with Hindustan Times, the actor recalled his experience playing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's character on screen.

'It's a matter of pride for all of us, not just Maharashtrians. He established Hindu Swaraj in India. He's a pioneer,' said Kelkar. He recalled how he was surprised when the role was offered to him.



Sharad further added, 'I had never met or spoken to Om Raut, the director, before. I was out of the country when he called and said he wanted to meet me. He then said he wants me to play Shivaji, and I took two minutes before asking, 'Why me?' He said he wants his king to look like this and have a personality like mine."

"We did a look test, and when I came to the office in that attire, everybody went quiet. Then I realized they were looking at me. That gave me a lot of confidence. For a Maharashtrian Marathi actor, this role is once in a lifetime. It's the biggest achievement,' the actor shared.

He remembers how, after Tanhaji was released, fans had only two things to say: about the movie and his role. 'People 100 out of 100 times mentioned this film and my role in the conversations. It was a matter of pride,' Sharad Kelkar further mentioned.

Radio City wishes everyone a happy Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayati.