On the auspicious occasion of Shivaji Jayanti in 2024, the accomplished actor Sharad Kelkar took a moment to honor the historical figure of Shivaji Maharaj, whose valor and leadership have left an indelible mark on Indian history and on Kelkar’s personal journey as an artist.
In a candid conversation, Sharad Kelkar shared his thoughts and reflections on the profound impact that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has had on his life and illustrious career. He recounted the extraordinary opportunity he was given to portray the legendary Maratha king in the critically acclaimed film ‘Tanhaji: The Unsung Hero,’ directed by Om Raut.
Illustrating his sense of pride, Sharad Kelkar expressed, “It’s a matter of pride for all of us, not just Maharashtrians. He established Hindavi Swarajya in India. He’s a pioneer.” The role of Shivaji Maharaj, revered for establishing a Maratha kingdom that championed the notion of self-rule, was a once-in-a-lifetime chance for Kelkar. The actor felt deeply honored to bring to life the story of a ruler who fought tirelessly for his people’s freedom.
The selection process for the part of Shivaji Maharaj came as a surprise to Sharad Kelkar, who had never previously encountered director Om Raut. As Kelkar recounted, while he was abroad, Raut reached out to him with a desire to meet. Upon his return, Raut disclosed his intent for Kelkar to assume the role of the famed king. Filled with astonishment, Kelkar asked why he was chosen, to which Raut responded by proclaiming that he envisioned his king with Kelkar’s commanding presence and stalwart personality.
A look test followed, and upon arriving at the office clad in royal attire, Sharad Kelkar noticed a hushed reverence envelop the room. It dawned on him that he was the center of attention, a realization that imbued him with immense confidence. “For a Maharashtrian, Marathi actor, this role is once in a lifetime. It’s the biggest achievement,” he declared.
Sharad Kelkar’s performance as Shivaji Maharaj garnered widespread praise and esteem, reinforcing his feeling that portraying such an iconic figure was not just an individual achievement but a point of communal pride. He also touched upon the limited representation of Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy in his school history books. Having grown up in Madhya Pradesh, Sharad’s early education included only cursory mentions of the great leader. Motivated by this gap, he approached the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, advocating for more comprehensive educational content on Shivaji Maharaj to enlighten future generations.
The impact of this role resonated deeply with Kelkar, forging a connection to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj that transcended the realms of cinema and entered the fabric of his identity. The actor considers himself tremendously fortunate for this life-changing experience. On the professional spectrum, Sharad Kelkar has continued to grace the screen with his talent, most recently with a special appearance in Rohit Shetty’s action-packed series ‘Indian Police Force’.
As Shivaji Jayanti 2024 brings together people in celebration of a revered hero’s legacy, Sharad Kelkar’s reflections emphasize the timeless relevance of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj not only in the annals of history but also in the hearts and aspirations of those he continues to inspire today. The actor’s journey, bolstered by this defining role, serves as a testament to the power of art in keeping the flame of cultural icons burning bright for generations to come.
