‘Raja Shivaji’: Netizens call Salman Khan’s cameo ‘a moment of power’; describe him as a ‘fierce protector’

Riteish Deshmukh’s ‘Raja Shivaji’ has been making headlines for several reasons, like story, direction and performance. Amid all this, one of the factors that has been helping the film garner all the movie love and attention is the cameo of Salman Khan.For the uninitiated, Salman Khan is playing a short yet very crucial role in the Riteish Deshmukh-directed ‘Raja Shivaji.’ His character of Jiva Mahala, one of the greatest warriors known for his valour and loyalty, leaves an impression within limited screentime as well. The internet reactions are proof that the audience simply couldn’t get enough of Salman Khan’s cameo in the film.Salman Khan coloured the netizens impressed, as one of the internet users wrote, “When #salmankhan steps in, even a cameo turns into a moment of power !! This is what happens when a director truly understands his aura. Absolute goosebumps stuff! @BeingSalmanKhan“Did #SalmanKhan truly justify the role of Jeeva Mahala in Raja Shivaji, the fierce protector of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj… or was it not that good ? #RajaShivaji #RiteishDeshmukh,” shared another internet user.Reacting to Salman’s performance, one of the internet users wrote, “Man, just saw the cameo... what a powerful visual! What a look - pure iconic stuff by Salman Khan as Jiva Mahala in #RajaShivaji. Absolutely loved it. Theatres are going to explode with whistles and claps!”Another described the performance as a ‘powerful cameo’“Salman Khan's mustache, traditional turban, and Maratha warrior attire—Salman's entry is awesome, it's fantastic,” wrote another netizen.Written and directed by Riteish Deshmukh, the movie chronicles the bravery of the Maratha warrior, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Released on May 1, 2026, the movie has an ensemble cast, where every actor is being lauded for their character. It has Abhishek Bachchan as Sambhaji Shahaji Bhonsale, Vidya Balan as Badi Begum, Boman Irani as Peer Baba, Bhagyashree as Jijabai, among others.