A Warrior Queen Joins the Throne: Bhumi Pednekar’s Boldest Role Yet in India’s Biggest Historical Epic

Some casting announcements feel routine. This one feels historic. Bhumi Pednekar has officially joined the star-studded cast of The Pride of Bharat: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, stepping into a role unlike anything she’s done before — and fans are already buzzing.

The Big Announcement

Pednekar will portray Belawadi Mallamma, a fierce 17th-century warrior queen from Karnataka celebrated for her courage and fierce resistance. It’s a striking pivot into action-driven historical territory for an actress known largely for grounded, contemporary roles.

Sharing her excitement, Pednekar called it an honor to be part of a film on the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, adding that playing Mallamma felt like a privilege and something entirely new for her as a performer.

Bhumi Pednekar’s Role: Overview

Why This Casting Matters

Rishab Shetty, riding high on his Kantara success, headlines the film in the titular role, and Pednekar has openly credited his performance style as part of what drew her to the project. With Shefali Shah playing Rajmata Jijabai and heavyweights like Arjun Rampal and Vivek Oberoi rounding out the cast, this two-part saga is shaping up as one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious historical productions.

The story draws from the life of Shivaji, the Maratha king whose military strategy and governance remain widely studied in Indian history, making this project a significant cultural undertaking rather than just another period drama.

What’s Next?

The film is expected to go on floors later this year, with Part 1 aiming for a grand theatrical release in January 2027. Given the scale of talent involved — from music to screenplay to casting — expectations are already sky-high.

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