The film *Raja Shivaji*, starring and directed by Riteish Deshmukh, received an overwhelming response from both audiences and critics. It also performed well at the box office. To celebrate the film's success, the entire team—including Riteish—hosted a success party attended by the full cast and crew.

A video from the event went viral, showing Riteish dancing to a Bollywood song while wearing a T-shirt featuring an image of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The viral video sparked controversy, with many people trolling Riteish Deshmukh. Some alleged that he was intoxicated. Riteish has now responded to the matter for the first time, offering an apology while explaining his side.

**No Intention to Disrespect Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj**
Riteish issued a detailed statement regarding the issue via an Instagram Story. He wrote, "Our entire team organized a small gathering to celebrate the fantastic response the recently released film *Raja Shivaji* received from the audience. A video of me from this event is currently going viral on social media.

As a devotee of Shivaji Maharaj (*Shivpremi*) and someone who deeply respects his own family, I feel it is my duty to clarify this. I wish to humbly state that I had absolutely no intention of disrespecting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj while celebrating in that T-shirt.

I had been wearing that T-shirt during the film's promotions. On that day, too, I attended the gathering immediately after finishing the promotional activities, so I simply forgot to change out of the T-shirt."

**I Have Never Consumed Alcohol in My Life**
Riteish further stated, "Regarding some of the allegations being made about me on social media, I want to clarify that I have never consumed alcohol in my life, nor will I ever do so in the future. Therefore, all such allegations are completely baseless. The person who recorded this video had not even been invited to the event." This event was intended to express gratitude to all the artists and associates who worked tirelessly for three and a half years on the film 'Raja Shivaji.' However, if my actions have inadvertently hurt anyone's sentiments, I—as a devotee of Shivaji—sincerely express my regret for the same.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj stands as a symbol of faith, inspiration, and pride for all of us. I harbor immense respect, love, and devotion for him in my heart. This sentiment remains just as strong today and will endure forever. Jai Shivray!

**Directed by Riteish Deshmukh**
Directed by Riteish Deshmukh, 'Raja Shivaji' was released in theaters on May 1st. The film performed splendidly at the box office and garnered a positive response from critics as well. In the film, Riteish Deshmukh himself portrays the character of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Furthermore, the film features an extensive star cast, including renowned artists such as Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Genelia Deshmukh, Boman Irani, Bhagyashree, Sachin Khedekar, Amol Gupte, Jitendra Joshi, and Mahesh Manjrekar. Additionally, Salman Khan makes a cameo appearance in the film.

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