Ranapati Shivray - Swari Agra

Ranapati Shivray Swari Agra, the sixth film in filmmaker Digpal Lanjekar's Shri Shivraj Ashtak film series, is a grand and stylised take on the seminal incident in the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film gives special homage to the cast of supporters who served the great king. We are introduced to their individual personalities throughout the film. The film also utilises quite a few segues to add a thriller element to the otherwise well known story.

Taking over the mantle from Chinmay Mandlekar, actor Abhijeet Shwetachandra brings to life Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and shows great chemistry with the support cast throughout the film. The dialogues, on occasion, are quite screamy but convey the emotions intended by the makers.

The film is low on action but it makes up for this with the stellar sets and glorious costumes. The visual appeal is sure to elevate the viewing experience. That said, there are certain gaps that stick out like a sore thumb, particularly in the war scenes and crowd scenes in Agra which look a little bland.

The second half will have you relive the old tale as if witnessing it first hand. There are artistic liberties taken in the story. So, it may divert from the version of history you may know. But Ranapati Shivray Swari Agra aims to be a visual treat and largely succeeds in achieving that. It is a stylised retelling of a historic tale that is sure to sweep you back in time.