As the film "Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior" marks its sixth anniversary, Sharad Kelkar, who portrayed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the movie, reminisces about the experience. Released in 2020, the film, directed by Om Raut, featured Ajay Devgn, Kajol, and Saif Ali Khan alongside Kelkar, chronicling the life of the Maratha warrior Tanaji Malusare.
Kelkar has expressed that portraying Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a "dream come true". He acknowledges the role as one of his most cherished memories. He also conveyed his gratitude for the love he still receives for his performance as the iconic historical figure.
Set in the 17th century, "Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior" depicts Tanaji's mission to reclaim the Kondhana fortress, which had fallen under the control of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and subsequently his trusted guard Udaybhan Singh Rathore. Kelkar has credited director Om Raut for the opportunity to play such a significant historical role.
Sharad Kelkar's career has seen him take on diverse roles across different platforms. He made his Tamil debut in 2024 with "Ayalaan" and played a supporting role in the Hindi biopic "Srikanth". He also starred in the Marathi action film "Raanti" that same year. In July 2025, Kelkar returned to television after an eight-year hiatus with Zee TV's "Tumm Se Tumm Tak".
Before "Tanhaji," Kelkar had already established himself in the entertainment industry through various roles in film and television. In 2016, he appeared in "Mohenjo Daro" and "Rocky Handsome," and also made his Telugu debut with "Sardaar Gabbar Singh". In 2017, he starred in the television show "Koi Laut Ke Aaya Hai" and played antagonist roles in the films "Bhoomi" and "Irada".
Beyond acting, Kelkar has also showcased his versatility through voice acting, including lending his voice to the Hindi adaptation of Marvel's "Wastelanders" as Wolverine.
Sharad Kelkar was born into a Marathi family and brought up in Gwalior. He holds an MBA from Prestige Institute of Management, Gwalior, and Laxmibai National Institute of Physical Education, Gwalior. He married his co-star Keerti Gaekwad Kelkar in 2005, and they have a daughter. The couple also participated in "Nach Baliye 2".
