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<div>{{short description|2015 Indian epic historical romance film}}<br />
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2020}}<br />
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2019}}<br />
{{Infobox film<br />
| name = Bajirao Mastani<br />
| image = Bajirao Mastani poster.jpg<br />
| caption = Theatrical release poster<br />
| director = [[Sanjay Leela Bhansali]]<br />
| producer = Sanjay Leela Bhansali<br />Tiger Sharma <br />[[Kishore Lulla]]<br />
| screenplay = Prakash R. Kapadia<br />
Sanjay Leela Bhansali (additional screenplay)<br />
| based_on = {{Based on|''[[Rau (novel)|Rau]]''|[[Nagnath S. Inamdar]]}}<br />
| starring = [[Ranveer Singh]]<br />[[Deepika Padukone]]<br />[[Priyanka Chopra]]<br />
| music = '''Songs:'''<br />Sanjay Leela Bhansali<br />'''Score:'''<br />[[Sanchit Balhara]]<br />
| cinematography = [[Sudeep Chatterjee]]<br />
| editing = Rajesh G. Pandey<br />
| studio = Bhansali Productions<br />Amber Entertainment<br/>[[Eros International]]<br />
| distributor = Eros International<br />
| released = {{film date|df=y|2015|12|18}}<br />
| runtime = 158 minutes<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani |url=http://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/bajirao-mastani-film |publisher=[[British Board of Film Classification]] |access-date=17 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222153516/http://www.bbfc.co.uk/releases/bajirao-mastani-film |archive-date=22 December 2015}}</ref><br />
| country = India<br />
| language = Hindi<br />
| budget = {{INR|145 [[crore]]}}<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/photo/big-budget-2017-bollywood-films-841727-2017-02-01 |title=5 big-budget Bollywood films of last 5 years: Dhoom 3 to Bajirao Mastani |date=January 2017 |work=[[India Today]] |access-date=21 October 2020 |archive-date=21 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421155500/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/photo/big-budget-2017-bollywood-films-841727-2017-02-01 |url-status=live }}</ref><br />
| gross = <!--Do not remove-->{{Estimation}}<!--per consensus at WT:ICTF--> {{INR|356.2 crore}}<ref name="boi">{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=3193 |publisher=[[Box Office India]] |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170615062032/http://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=3193 |archive-date=15 June 2017}}</ref><br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''''Bajirao Mastani''''' is a 2015 Indian [[Hindi]]-language [[Epic film|epic]] [[historical romance]] film directed by [[Sanjay Leela Bhansali]], who co-produced it with [[Eros International]] and composed its [[Bajirao Mastani (soundtrack)|soundtrack]]. The film stars [[Ranveer Singh]], [[Deepika Padukone]] and [[Priyanka Chopra]] with [[Tanvi Azmi]], [[Vaibhav Tatwawaadi]], [[Milind Soman]], [[Mahesh Manjrekar]] and [[Aditya Pancholi]] in supporting roles. Based on [[Nagnath S. Inamdar]]'s [[Marathi language|Marathi]] novel ''[[Rau (novel)|Rau]]'', ''Bajirao Mastani'' narrates the story of the [[Maratha]] ''[[Peshwa]]'' [[Bajirao I]] (1700–1740 AD) and his second wife, [[Mastani]].<br />
<br />
Conceived as early as the 1990s, Bhansali announced the film in 2003 but production was delayed several times due to its changing cast. ''Bajirao Mastani'', a passion project for Bhansali, spent the next eleven twelve years in [[development hell]] before being revived in 2014. Extensive research was done before moving into [[pre-production]], which required the creation of twenty-two highly detailed sets, and numerous costumes and props to strengthen its opulence and high production value. [[Principal photography]] took place on sets constructed in [[Film City, Mumbai|Film City]], with some portions being filmed on location. [[Visual effects]] and [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]] were used in [[post-production]] to enhance a number of scenes.<br />
<br />
''Bajirao Mastani'' was released on 18 December 2015 and was praised for Bhansali's direction, various technical achievements, and the performances of the cast. The film has also been noted for its scale, grandeur and attention to detail. Recipient of [[List of accolades received by Bajirao Mastani|several accolades]], ''Bajirao Mastani'' won 7 [[National Film Awards]], including [[National Film Award for Best Direction|Best Direction]] (Bhansali) and [[National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress|Best Supporting Actress]] (Azmi). The film received a leading 14 nominations at the [[61st Filmfare Awards]], including [[Filmfare Award for Best Actress|Best Actress]] (Padukone) and [[Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress|Best Supporting Actress]] (Azmi), and won a leading 9 awards, including [[Filmfare Award for Best Film|Best Film]], [[Filmfare Award for Best Director|Best Director]] (Bhansali), [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] (Singh) and Best Supporting Actress (Chopra). At the [[Zee Cine Awards]], Singh won [[Zee Cine Critics Award for Best Actor – Male|Best Actor – Male (Critics)]] and Padukone won [[Zee Cine Award for Best Actor – Female|Best Actor – Female]]. It became the [[List of highest-grossing Indian films|29th highest grossing Indian film of all time.]]<br />
<br />
== Plot ==<br />
In 1720, the court of [[Maratha Empire|Maratha]] Emperor [[Chhatrapati Shahu]] needs a new ''[[Peshwa]]'', the equivalent of a prime minister. Ambaji Pant nominates a young [[Bajirao I|Bajirao]]. As a test, [[Bajirao]] is asked to split a peacock feather with an arrow. He succeeds and is given the ''Peshwa'' title. Ten years later, his wife [[Kashibai]] is visited by her widowed friend Bhanu, whose husband, accused of spying, was ordered to be executed by Bajirao. She predicts that just as she yearns for her husband, Kashibai will yearn for Bajirao.<br />
<br />
While travelling to [[Sironj]]a, an [[Ambassador|emissary]] from [[Bundelkhand]] requests Bajirao's help to fight invaders. She reveals herself to be [[Mastani]], the daughter of the Hindu [[Rajput]] king [[Chhatrasal]] and his [[Persian people|Persian]] Muslim consort Ruhani Begum. Impressed by her skills as a warrior, Bajirao assists her with his army and defeats the invaders. Chhatrasal is overjoyed and insists Bajirao to spend [[Holi]] with them. Mastani and Bajirao fall in love during this time and he gives her his dagger, unaware that it is a symbol of marriage among the Rajputs. Back home in [[Pune]], Kashibai greets Bajirao with a tour of their newly built [[Shaniwar Wada]] and the [[Aina Mahal|Aaina Mahal]] (Hall of Mirrors), which allows her to see him from her room.<br />
<br />
Determined to pursue her love, Mastani arrives in Pune but is treated harshly by Bajirao's mother Radhabai and accommodated in the palace for [[courtesan]]s, as Radhabai refuses to accept her as a daughter-in-law. Mastani tolerates this and adamantly expresses her desire to be with Bajirao; Bajirao chides in her persistence, reminding her he is already married and will never fully be hers; his court will also never respect her. Mastani agrees to these conditions so Bajirao declares her his second wife.<br />
<br />
The Marathas prepare to attack [[Delhi]], the capital of the [[Mughal Empire]], but must first ensure the [[Nizam of Hyderabad|Nizam]], the Muslim ruler of [[Hyderabad State|Hyderabad]], will not attack them. Bajirao leaves to confront the Nizam, [[Qamar-ud-din Khan, Asif Jah I|Qamar ud-Din Khan]], and returns successful. Through her Aaina Mahal, a pregnant Kashibai sees Bajirao embracing Mastani, who is also expecting. Heartbroken, she leaves for her mother's home, and returns months later with her newborn son, who is named [[Raghunathrao|Raghunath]]. Mastani also gives birth to a son, named [[Shamsher Bahadur I (Krishna Rao)|Krishna Rao]]. After the [[Brahmin]] priest refuses to conduct the Hindu naming ceremony on the grounds that Krishna Rao is illegitimate, Bajirao renames his son [[Shamsher Bahadur]], deciding he will be raised Muslim. A few years later, Kashibai and Bajirao's eldest son [[Balaji Baji Rao]], known as Nana Saheb, returns from [[Satara (city)|Satara]] and expresses his hatred of Mastani for breaking his mother's marriage.<br />
<br />
Kashibai is informed of a plan to murder Mastani and her son during the [[Ganesh Chaturthi]] festival. She saves Mastani by relaying this to an unaware Bajirao, who promptly rescues them. To keep Mastani safe and grant her a royal home, Bajirao builds a palace for her. He later leaves for the battlefield to defeat [[Nasir Jung]], the vengeful son of the Nizam. Before leaving, he meets Kashibai in deference to the tradition that the wife see her husband into battle. In tears, Kashibai explains that Bajirao broke her heart and took her pride in what he has done, and compares their love with that of [[Krishna]] and [[Rukmini]]. She asks him never to enter her chamber again, and a teary-eyed Bajirao accepts, apologising for hurting her.<br />
<br />
Once Bajirao leaves, his mother and Nana Saheb imprison Mastani and her son. After Bajirao receives the news, he singlehandedly defeats Nasir Jung's army in his rage but is grievously injured. At Bajirao's deathbed, Kashibai sends a letter pleading with his mother to release Mastani so that he recovers. Nana Saheb burns the letter, though Mastani's son is set free. Bajirao, delirious from his illness, hallucinates and dies as Kashibai helplessly watches; at the same time, Mastani dies in captivity. The ill-fated lovers are united in death.<br />
<br />
== Cast ==<br />
The cast is listed below:<ref name="cast&crew">{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Cast & Crew |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/bajirao-mastani/cast/ |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902181846/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/bajirao-mastani/cast/ |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref><br />
{{columns-list|colwidth=30em|<br />
* [[Ranveer Singh]] as [[Bajirao I]]: The [[Peshwa]] of the [[Maratha Empire]] and Kashibai and Mastani's husband.<br />
* [[Deepika Padukone]] as [[Mastani]]: Bajirao's second wife.<br />
* [[Priyanka Chopra]] as [[Kashibai]]: Bajirao's first wife and [[Nana Saheb]] and [[Ragunath Rao|Ragunath]]'s Mother.<br />
* [[Tanvi Azmi]] as Radhabai: Bajirao's mother.<br />
* [[Milind Soman]] as [[Purandare|Ambaji Pant Purandare]]<br />
* [[Vaibhav Tatwawaadi]] as [[Chimaji Appa]]: Bajirao's younger brother<br />
* [[Ayush Tandon]] as [[Balaji Baji Rao|Nana Saheb]]: Kashibai and Bajirao's first son.<br />
* [[Mahesh Manjrekar]] as [[Chhatrapati Shahu]]<br />
* [[Aditya Pancholi]] as [[Shripatrao Pratinidhi]]<br />
* [[Raza Murad]] as [[Asaf Jah I]]: [[Nizam of Hyderabad|Nizam]] of [[Hyderabad State|Hyderabad]]<br />
* Sukhada Khandkekar as Anubai<br />
* [[Benjamin Gilani]] as Maharaja [[Chhatrasal]]<br />
* [[Anuja Sathe]] as Bhiubai<br />
* [[Yatin Karyekar]] as Krishna Bhatt<br />
* Ganesh Yadav as [[Malhar Rao Holkar]]<br />
* Snehlata Girish Vasaikar as Bhanu<br />
* [[Irrfan Khan]] as the narrator ([[voice-over]])<br />
* Kaartik Ahuja as [[Nasir Jung]]}}<br />
<br />
== Production ==<br />
=== Development ===<br />
<br />
[[Sanjay Leela Bhansali]] had conceived the historical romance about Maratha Peshwa [[Baji Rao I|Bajirao]] and his second wife Mastani even before he had directed his first feature ''[[Khamoshi: The Musical]]'' in 1996.<ref name="fc">{{cite news |title=6 Epic Films That Took Forever To Make |url=http://www.filmcompanion.in/article/6-epic-films-took-forever-make |last=Ghosh |first=Shingita |publisher=Film Companion |date=6 December 2016 |access-date=30 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830201250/http://www.filmcompanion.in/article/6-epic-films-took-forever-make |archive-date=30 August 2017}}</ref> Several other directors such as [[Muzaffar Ali]], [[Manmohan Desai]] and [[Kamal Amrohi]] had tried to make a film about the two historical figures but they were never made.<ref name="bhansali">{{cite news |title=Bhansali's Bajirao |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/1151202/jsp/t2/story_56085.jsp |last=Roy |first=Priyanka |work=[[The Telegraph (Calcutta)|The Telegraph]] |date=2 December 2015 |access-date=30 August 2017|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830194546/https://www.telegraphindia.com/1151202/jsp/t2/story_56085.jsp |archive-date=30 August 2017}}</ref> Bhansali had intended to make ''Bajirao Mastani'' after the release of ''[[Devdas (2002 Hindi film)|Devdas]]'' (2002) and had officially announced it in 2003, with filming scheduled to begin in May 2004.<ref name="rediff">{{cite web |title=I believe in Black as much as Bajirao Mastani |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/jul/18sanjay.htm |last=Jha |first=Subhash K. |author-link=Subhash K. Jha |work=[[Rediff.com]] |date=18 July 2003 |access-date=1 September 2014|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129074356/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2003/jul/18sanjay.htm |archive-date=29 November 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indiafm.com/scoop/03/may/2105bhansali/index.shtml |title=Sanjay Leela Bhansali on 'Bajirao Mastani' |date=May 2003 |website=Bollywood Hungama |last=Adarsh |first=Taran |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030806235208/http://www.indiafm.com/scoop/03/may/2105bhansali/index.shtml |archive-date=6 August 2003 |access-date=16 March 2021 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The film, however, was shelved indefinitely. Reports about a possible revival had made headlines ever since; Bhansali had planned to revive it every other year but the project never came to fruition.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bhansali's 'Bajirao Mastani' might be revived |url=http://www.news18.com/news/india/bhansalis-bajirao-mastani-might-be-revived-397013.html |last=Sharma |first=Test |publisher=[[News18]] |date=1 September 2011 |access-date=30 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830194611/http://www.news18.com/news/india/bhansalis-bajirao-mastani-might-be-revived-397013.html |archive-date=30 August 2017}}</ref> In an interview with ''[[The Telegraph (Calcutta)|The Telegraph]]'', Bhansali spoke about his intention to make ''Bajirao Mastani'' after finishing every film he made in-between, saying "I kept trying to revive it over and over again, but if there is one thing that filmmaking has taught me, it's that every film has its own destiny. And I strongly believe that the souls of&nbsp;... Bajirao, Mastani and Kashibai wanted us to make this film only now."<ref name="bhansali" /> In the process, the film became a passion project for him.<ref name="bhansali" /><br />
<br />
After spending eleven years in [[development hell]], Bhansali revived the project in 2014; the film was reported to be an adaptation of the Marathi-language novel ''[[Rau (novel)|Rau]]'' (1976) by [[Nagnath S. Inamdar]].<ref name="fc" /> After the project was shelved, Bhansali said he struggled to put the film together and that he considered the project impossible to make. Nevertheless, he clung to his ambition to make the film someday, saying, "there is magic to it".<ref name="bhansali" /> Some film industry professionals believed it would never be made, calling it "jinxed".<ref name="believe">{{cite news |title=People Said Bajirao Mastani Was Jinxed, Says Director Bhansali |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/people-said-bajirao-mastani-was-jinxed-says-director-bhansali-1261043 |agency=[[Indo-Asian News Service]] |publisher=[[NDTV]] |date=31 December 2015 |access-date=30 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831040641/http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/people-said-bajirao-mastani-was-jinxed-says-director-bhansali-1261043 |archive-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> Bhansali always believed in the project, assuring himself the script was so powerful he had to make it one day.<ref name="believe" /> He told ''The Telegraph'', "Honestly, I want very few things in life&nbsp;... so I know that I am resilient enough to get them all! Deep down, I kept asking for the universe to let me make this film. When you dream very genuinely, then I believe you also get the power to fulfill it. In pursuing ''Bajirao Mastani'', I have been resilient and very focused. I have sacrificed a lot of things".<ref name="bhansali" /><br />
<br />
Primarily known for making romantic dramas, Bhansali was intrigued about the romance between "two people who defied everything, just to be in love with each other", and was excited to tell a 200-year-old story.<ref name="bhansali" /> He wanted to show the relationship between Bajirao and Mastani because it was rarely depicted in history books, and little was known about it.<ref name="bhansali" /> He had long admired the Maratha backdrop and the different religions of the protagonists{{mdash}}Bajirao was Hindu and Mastani was Muslim{{mdash}}which further drove his interest towards knowing more and telling the story.<ref name="bhansali" /> He saw it as a chance to comment on religion and love, saying, "In those times, people were offended by the same things that offend them today. Through this film, I want to show that love is the greatest religion."<ref name="bhansali" /><br />
<br />
Prakash R. Kapadia wrote the screenplay.<ref name="writing">{{cite news |title=Casting was the difficult part of 'Bajirao Mastani': Prakash Kapadia |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/casting-was-the-difficult-part-of-bajirao-mastani-prakash-kapadia/ |work=[[The Indian Express]] |agency=[[Press Trust of India]] |date=23 November 2015 |access-date=30 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830195713/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/casting-was-the-difficult-part-of-bajirao-mastani-prakash-kapadia/ |archive-date=30 August 2017}}</ref> The makers acquired the rights of the novel and worked with historian [[Ninad Bedekar]]. Kapadia said writing the screenplay was a difficult task and a huge responsibility considering the historical context.<ref name="writing" /> Kapadia and Bhansali had consistently worked on the script since its conception, refining several aspects of the film.<ref name="writing" /> Considering the script was written twelve years before, several changes were made to it, such as the decreasing the length and increasing the pace to suit the modern audiences.<ref name="writing" /> Although adapted from the novel, the romance between the film's protagonists has not been well documented in history books or archives and several versions of the story exist. Many cinematic liberties were taken to build drama and highlight incidents.<ref name="bhansali" /><br />
<br />
=== Casting ===<br />
Bhansali originally wanted to repeat his ''[[Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam]]'' (1999) pairing of [[Salman Khan]] with [[Aishwarya Rai]] for the eponymous roles, but could not cast them together after their highly publicised break-up.<ref name="make">{{cite news |title=Here's Why Bhansali Took Almost a Decade to Make Bajirao Mastani |url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/heres-why-bhansali-took-almost-a-decade-to-make-bajirao-mastani |last=Thakur |first=Bibhuti |work=The Quint |date=21 July 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831134118/https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/heres-why-bhansali-took-almost-a-decade-to-make-bajirao-mastani |archive-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> Khan then tried to suggest his then-girlfriend [[Katrina Kaif]] for the role of Mastani but things did not materialise.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bajirao Mastani: After Aishwarya Rai Bachchan walked out, Salman Khan wanted Katrina Kaif to be his leading lady? |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/bajirao-mastani-after-aishwarya-rai-bachchan-walked-out-salman-khan-wanted-katrina-kaif-be-his-659677 |work=[[International Business Times]] |date=16 December 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831131906/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/bajirao-mastani-after-aishwarya-rai-bachchan-walked-out-salman-khan-wanted-katrina-kaif-be-his-659677 |archive-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> When the film was finally announced in 2003, Bhansali had cast Khan and [[Kareena Kapoor]] in the titular roles, with [[Rani Mukerji]] playing Baji Rao's first wife Kashibai.<ref name="rediff" /> However, the idea was scrapped when Khan and Kapoor signed other films together. Bhansali wanted to be the first director to showcase their pairing. Hence, the film was shelved and Bhansali went on to direct other films.<ref name="make" /><br />
<br />
[[File:Ranvir, Dipika at the press conference of ‘Bajirao Mastani’.jpg|thumb|left|upright=1.1|[[Ranveer Singh]] (left) and [[Deepika Padukone]] were cast to play the titular roles.]]<br />
<br />
Over the following 10 years, media speculation about the production and casting of ''Bajirao Mastani'' continued.<ref>{{cite news |title=11 Lesser Known Facts About Bajirao Mastani That Are Beyond Intriguing |url=http://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/11-lesser-known-facts-about-bajirao-mastani-that-are-beyond-intriguing-234810.html |last=Sharma |first=Isha |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=15 July 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831134729/http://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/11-lesser-known-facts-about-bajirao-mastani-that-are-beyond-intriguing-234810.html |archive-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> After the film was revived in 2014, reports of [[Ajay Devgn]] and [[Deepika Padukone]] being approached for the film made headlines in February.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ajay Devgn-Deepika Padukone in and as Bajirao Mastani? |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-ajay-devgn-deepika-padukone-in-and-as-bajirao-mastani-1962099 |work=[[Daily News and Analysis]] |date=15 February 2014 |access-date=18 July 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150803052715/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-ajay-devgn-deepika-padukone-in-and-as-bajirao-mastani-1962099 |archive-date=3 August 2015}}</ref> Devgn dropped out of the film, however, due to differences with Bhansali about several terms of his contract, such as dates and remuneration.<ref>{{cite news |title=Here's why Ajay Devgn didn't do Bajirao Mastani |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/heres-why-ajay-devgn-didnt-do-sanjay-leela-bhansali-bajirao-mastani/1/378354.html |work=[[India Today]] |date=22 August 2014 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150804010535/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/heres-why-ajay-devgn-didnt-do-sanjay-leela-bhansali-bajirao-mastani/1/378354.html |archive-date=4 August 2015}}</ref> The next month, it was reported that [[Ranveer Singh]] was in talks to play Bajirao.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone to romance again in Bhansali's 'Bajirao Mastani'? |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-to-romance-again-in-bhansalis-bajirao-mastani/ |work=The Indian Express |date=7 March 2014 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831172907/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-to-romance-again-in-bhansalis-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> The same month, reports suggested [[Priyanka Chopra]] was cast to play Kashibai, Bajirao's first wife.<ref>{{cite news |title=Priyanka Chopra to join Bajirao Mastani cast |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/priyanka-chopra-bajirao-mastani-kashibai-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone/1/350549.html |work=India Today |date=24 March 2014 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150331230609/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/priyanka-chopra-bajirao-mastani-kashibai-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone/1/350549.html |archive-date=31 March 2015}}</ref> In July 2014, it was officially confirmed that Singh, Padukone and Chopra were finalised to play the principal roles.<ref>{{cite news |last=Goswami |first=Parismita |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/its-confirmed-ranveer-deepika-priyanka-star-bhansalis-bajirao-mastani-604675 |work=International Business Times |title=It's Confirmed: Ranveer, Deepika and Priyanka to Star in Bhansali's 'Bajirao Mastani' |date=17 July 2014 |access-date=1 September 2014|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140918170354/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/its-confirmed-ranveer-deepika-priyanka-star-bhansalis-bajirao-mastani-604675 |archive-date=18 September 2014}}</ref><br />
<br />
Chopra was the first actor to be cast in the film; Bhansali wanted Kashibai to be cast first, only after which he could decide whom to cast for the title roles.<ref name="firstactor">{{cite news |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/did-bajirao-mastani-for-sanjay-leela-bhansali-priyanka-chopra-115113000560_1.html |title=Did 'Bajirao Mastani' for Sanjay Leela Bhansali: Priyanka Chopra |work=[[Business Standard]] |agency=[[Indo-Asian News Service]] |date=30 November 2015 |location=Mumbai, India |access-date=28 January 2021 |url-status=live |archive-date=15 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415131547/http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/did-bajirao-mastani-for-sanjay-leela-bhansali-priyanka-chopra-115113000560_1.html }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=I am a greedy actor: Priyanka Chopra |url=http://www.asianage.com/amp/bollywood/i-am-greedy-actor-priyanka-chopra-683 |last=Madhav |first=Ram |work=[[The Asian Age]] |date=7 January 2016 |access-date=23 October 2017|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023192312/http://www.asianage.com/amp/bollywood/i-am-greedy-actor-priyanka-chopra-683 |archive-date=23 October 2017}}</ref> Bhansali, who produced Chopra-starrer ''[[Mary Kom (film)|Mary Kom]]'' (2014), went on to that film's set in [[Manali, Himachal Pradesh|Manali]] to narrate it with the writer Prakash Kapadia; Bhansali was adamant in his choice of Chopra, who recalled, "The rest of the film hadn't been cast yet. My picture would be there and the pictures for Bajirao and Mastani would keep changing."<ref name="firstactor" /><ref>{{cite web |title='I'm a modern girl. I can beat up people!' |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/im-a-modern-girl-i-can-beat-up-people/20151202.htm |last=Patel |first=Jahnavi |work=Rediff.com |date=2 December 2017 |access-date=23 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170916172558/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/im-a-modern-girl-i-can-beat-up-people/20151202.htm |archive-date=16 September 2017}}</ref><br />
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[[Milind Soman]] joined the cast in the late August 2014.<ref>{{cite news |title=Milind Soman in Bajirao Mastani |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/screen/milind-soman-in-bajirao-mastani/ |work=The Indian Express |date=29 August 2014 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170608230905/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/screen/milind-soman-in-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=8 June 2017}}</ref> In late September 2014, it was confirmed that [[Tanvi Azmi]] was cast for the role of Bajirao's mother Radhabai; [[Shabana Azmi]], [[Dimple Kapadia]], and [[Supriya Pathak]] had also been considered for the role.<ref>{{cite news |title=Tanvi Azmi to play Ranveer Singh's mother in 'Bajirao Mastani' |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/tanvi-azmi-to-play-ranveer-singhs-mother-in-bajirao-mastani/ |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |work=The Indian Express |date=27 September 2014 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831172154/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/tanvi-azmi-to-play-ranveer-singhs-mother-in-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> The following month, [[Aditya Pancholi]] joined the cast as an antagonist.<ref>{{cite news |title="I've waited long to work with Mr. Bhansali" – Aditya Pancholi |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/ive-waited-long-to-work-with-mr-bhansali-aditya-pancholi/ |last=Jha |first=Subhash K. |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=2 October 2014 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902230929/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/ive-waited-long-to-work-with-mr-bhansali-aditya-pancholi/ |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref> In November 2014, the casting of Bajirao's sisters were finalised; Sukhada Khandkekar was ast as Anubai and [[Anuja Gokhale]] as Bhiubai.<ref>{{cite news |title=Meet Ranveer's Marathi sisters |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/marathi/movies/news/Meet-Ranveers-Marathi-sisters/articleshow/45056134.cms |work=The Times of India |date=6 November 2014 |access-date=6 November 2014|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113172743/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/marathi/movies/news/Meet-Ranveers-Marathi-sisters/articleshow/45056134.cms |archive-date=13 November 2014}}</ref> The following month, [[Mahesh Manjrekar]] was cast to play Maratha Emperor Chhattrapati Shahu.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/more/news/view/id/3238695 |title=Mahesh Manjrekar joins cast of Bajirao Mastani |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=22 December 2014 |access-date=22 December 2014|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141222123944/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/more/news/view/id/3238695 |archive-date=22 December 2014}}</ref> It was announced in January 2015 that [[Vaibhav Tatwawaadi]] was chosen to play Bajirao's younger brother Chimaji Appa.<ref>{{cite news |title=Vaibbhav joins SLB's Bajirao Mastani |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/marathi/movies/news/Vaibbhav-joins-SLBs-Bajirao-Mastani/articleshow/45831672.cms |last=Kulkarni |first=Pooja |work=The Times of India |date=10 January 2015 |access-date=10 January 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160826142617/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Entertainment/Marathi/Movies/News/Vaibbhav-joins-SLBs-Bajirao-Mastani/articleshow/45831672.cms |archive-date=26 August 2016}}</ref> [[Irrfan Khan]] was cast as the film's narrator.<ref name="cast&crew" /><br />
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All of the actors had to undergo training before filming began; Singh and Padukone learned sword-fighting, horse-riding and the ancient Indian martial art [[Kalaripayattu]].<ref name="train">{{cite news |last=Pathak |first=Ankur |title=Ranveer and Deepika to train in Kathak and Kalaripayattu |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news-interviews/Ranveer-and-Deepika-to-train-in-Kathak-and-Kalaripayattu/articleshow/38593591.cms |work=The Times of India |date=18 July 2014 |access-date=1 September 2014|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221002056/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news-interviews/Ranveer-and-Deepika-to-train-in-Kathak-and-Kalaripayattu/articleshow/38593591.cms |archive-date=21 December 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Deepika Padukone to learn sword-fighting for Bajirao Mastani |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/deepika-padukone-to-learn-sword-fighting-for-bajirao-mastani/story-KUjvxij1mi4pBQyOLkzWrM.html |last=Awaasthi |first=Kavita |work=[[Hindustan Times]] |date=23 January 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222163238/http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/deepika-padukone-to-learn-sword-fighting-for-bajirao-mastani/story-KUjvxij1mi4pBQyOLkzWrM.html |archive-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> Singh was also required to learn Marathi and shave his head for the part, whereas Padukone had to take [[Kathak]] dance lessons.<ref name="train" /><ref>{{cite news |title=Ranveer Singh to go bald, learn Marathi for 'Bajirao Mastani' |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/ranveer-singh-to-go-bald-learn-marathi-for-bajirao-mastani/ |agency=Press Trust of India |work=The Indian Express |date=17 May 2014 |access-date=1 September 2014|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140826030913/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/ranveer-singh-to-go-bald-learn-marathi-for-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=26 August 2014}}</ref> In preparation for her role of Kashibai, Chopra had 15 days of language training in the Peshwai Marathi dialect spoken during the time of the ascension of the Peshwas to perfect the accent.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-priyanka-chopra-learns-peshwai-marathi-for-bajirao-mastani-2030289 |title=Priyanka Chopra learns Peshwai Marathi for Bajirao Mastani |last=Rakshit |first=Nayandeep |work=Daily News and Analysis |date=30 October 2014 |access-date=21 July 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150803055726/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-priyanka-chopra-learns-peshwai-marathi-for-bajirao-mastani-2030289 |archive-date=3 August 2015}}</ref> Azmi shaved her head completely for her role.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/screen/tanvi-azmi-goes-bald-for-bajirao-mastani/ |title=Tanvi Azmi goes bald for Bajirao Mastani |work=The Indian Express |access-date=21 July 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715044744/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/screen/tanvi-azmi-goes-bald-for-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=15 July 2015}}</ref><br />
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Singh has described his character as a "true Maratha", saying, "The deeper I get into it the more I realise what a great man he was. It is a great honour to be selected to play this character."<ref>{{cite web |title=Playing Bajirao was an intense experience for Ranveer Singh |url=http://www.news18.com/news/movies/playing-bajirao-was-an-intense-experience-for-ranveer-singh-1100698.html |agency=Press Trust of India |website=News18 |date=17 September 2015 |access-date=23 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023193543/http://www.news18.com/news/movies/playing-bajirao-was-an-intense-experience-for-ranveer-singh-1100698.html |archive-date=23 October 2017}}</ref> He has said he always wanted to transform himself into a character and playing Bajirao gave him that scope, which he said was "draining and tiring in every way".<ref name="way">{{cite news |title=Ranveer Singh: 'Bajirao Mastani' Was So Draining and Tiring in Every Way |url=http://www.indiawest.com/entertainment/interviews/ranveer-singh-bajirao-mastani-was-so-draining-and-tiring-in/article_66a3b292-a38f-11e5-912f-87d9a6c982e4.html |last=Vijayakar |first=R.M. |work=India-West |date=16 December 2015 |access-date=23 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160713181426/http://www.indiawest.com/entertainment/interviews/ranveer-singh-bajirao-mastani-was-so-draining-and-tiring-in/article_66a3b292-a38f-11e5-912f-87d9a6c982e4.html |archive-date=13 July 2016}}</ref> For portraying Bajirao, Singh's preparations required him to isolate himself from his own being and living like Bajirao. He instructed the crew members to address him as Bajirao, which helped him to remain in his character.<ref name="way" /> Singh would not respond to people who used his real name. He said, "It takes a lot of work and effort to be different from whom I am, and two hours to get ready, complete with makeup and the heavy costumes. After all this, if someone just tells me, Ranveer, your shot is ready! all that goes to waste."<ref name="way" /> Padukone found her character to be very relatable, saying, "She was so brave, strong, determined and yet fragile and vulnerable".<ref name="expect">{{cite web |title=I expect people to be speechless after watching Bajirao Mastani |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/interview/i-expect-people-to-be-speechless-after-watching-bajirao-mastani/20151217.htm |last=Patel |first=Jahnavi |work=Rediff.com |date=17 December 2015 |access-date=23 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420173456/http://www.rediff.com/movies/interview/i-expect-people-to-be-speechless-after-watching-bajirao-mastani/20151217.htm |archive-date=20 April 2016}}</ref> She was also inspired by her character and found playing the role challenging; it was physically demanding and required a lot of dancing.<ref name="expect" /> Padukone said the character had different layers; "One minute she goes on the battlefield, the next minute she's romancing him".<ref name="expect" /> Chopra was drawn towards the film because of her character which she thought was "very heart-breaking".<ref name="firstactor" /> She said playing Kashibai was "emotionally difficult" and a complete contrast to the strong women she has portrayed in most of her films.<ref name="domination">{{cite web |title='I'm looking for global domination!' |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/interview/im-looking-for-global-domination/20151217.htm |last=Rajendran |first=P. |work=Rediff.com |date=17 December 2015 |access-date=23 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420173501/http://www.rediff.com/movies/interview/im-looking-for-global-domination/20151217.htm |archive-date=20 April 2016}}</ref> She described her character as someone who is "heartbroken, a silent sufferer, dignified, resilient, can't take charge of her life, goes with whatever life throws her way. Just grace under fire."<ref name="domination" /><br />
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=== Pre-production ===<br />
Considering its scale, the film required detailed and extravagant pre-production work, which required extensive research and planning. Saloni Dhatrak, Sriram Iyengar and Sujeet Sawant worked as [[production designer]]s on the film.<ref name="preproduction1">{{cite web |title=Sets that appeal |url=https://www.filmfare.com/features/sets-that-appeal-11774-2.html |last=Rathod |first=Kinnari |work=[[Filmfare]] |date=8 January 2016 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831215229/https://www.filmfare.com/features/sets-that-appeal-11774-2.html |archive-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> Iyengar and Sawant had heard about the film while working on another film, when it was first announced. Having never met Bhansali, they started researching on their own by visiting Pune and [[Satara (city)|Satara]] and learnt about Maratha architecture.<ref name="preproduction1" /> When the film was shelved, they continued to research and formed a portfolio, hoping to approach other filmmakers for work. Several years later, when they heard about the revival, they met Bhansali, who was impresses by their research and presentation.<ref name="preproduction1" /><ref name="preproduction2">{{cite news |title=Exclusive Photos: Know how the Bajirao Mastani set was created from the makers! |url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/ENT-BOW-exclusive-photos-know-how-the-bajirao-mastani-set-was-created-from-the-makers-5190343-PHO.html |last=Mandal |first=Manisha |work=[[Dainik Bhaskar]] |date=9 December 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202194511/http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/ENT-BOW-exclusive-photos-know-how-the-bajirao-mastani-set-was-created-from-the-makers-5190343-PHO.html |archive-date=2 February 2017}}</ref> Bhansali wanted more research on [[Mughals]]; he engaged Dhatrak, who joined Iyengar and Sawant.<ref name="preproduction1" /> Bhansali then shared the script with the art directors and described his vision and the scale of the production.<ref name="preproduction3">{{cite web |title=Behind the visual splendor of Bajirao Mastani |url=http://www.autodesk.in/adsk/servlet/item?siteID=5967151&id=25416508 |publisher=[[Autodesk Media and Entertainment]] |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170831220954/http://www.autodesk.in/adsk/servlet/item?siteID=5967151&id=25416508 |archive-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> Pre-production work started as early as February 2014, continued as the shoot progressed and lasted until the filming was complete in October 2015; it lasted nineteen months.<ref name="preproduction2" /> Before pre-production work started, the art directors discussed with Bhansali about how much of the film would be filmed on set and outdoor locations, giving them an idea to how many sets they needed to create. Once the number of sets and location shots was decided, the production moved forward.<ref name="preproduction3" /><br />
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[[File:Shaniwarwada gate.JPG|thumb|300px|alt=A photograph of Shaniwar Wada|The set for [[Shaniwar Wada]] was the biggest set created for the film.]]<br />
Along with the art directors, nineteen art assistant directors, including architects, designers, sketch artists and props artists, were involved.<ref name="preproduction2" /> Twenty-two sets were created in [[Film City, Mumbai|Film City]] following a flow chart that included around 960 sketches and countless layouts. The two biggest sets were the exact replicas of [[Shaniwar Wada]] and the Aaina Mahal, both of which were "high on grandeur and intricacy".<ref name="preproduction2" /> The Shaniwar Wada set was the biggest set they had constructed; it took 45,000 planks and 600 workers a day to erect.<ref name="preproduction1" /> It was constructed on Sunil Maidan, one of the biggest open spaces in Film City and took forty-five days to build.<ref name="preproduction2" /> Kashibai's room was the first set to be constructed, which was approved after navigating through twenty-five designs.<ref name="preproduction2" /> The art directors did architectural research from Pune, [[Nasik]] and Satara, studying fortifications, baston walls and city gates to understand the interior and exterior designs of the ancient period and incorporated those ideas into building Kashibai's villa. Lotus motifs on mud-clad walls and handmade textures were used to give the set a realistic appearance.<ref name="preproduction2" /><br />
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Aina Mahal took 4,500 planks, with a hundred workers per day. The set was given a lotus-like design, with walls, ceiling and floor made out of handmade mud embedded with sparkling mirror designs.<ref name="preproduction2" /><ref name="history">{{cite news |title=How Bhansali tried hard to make history |url=http://punemirror.indiatimes.com/others/sunday-read//articleshow/50153828.cms |last=Jhunjunwala |first=Udita |work=[[Pune Mirror]] |date=13 December 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901022316/http://punemirror.indiatimes.com/others/sunday-read//articleshow/50153828.cms |archive-date=1 September 2017}}</ref> The replica of Aina Mahal was constructed in forty days, with more than 30,000 square feet of mirrors. More than 700 design stencils were used to decorate the hall.<ref name="history" /> Although the mirror hall was a Mughal concept, the art directors designed it to look like Maratha architecture. Mastani Mahal was built as an amalgamation of Rajput and Maratha architecture.<ref name="preproduction2" /> The exterior of Mastani Mahal was built as a part of Shaniwar Wada, whereas the interiors of were built on separate sets consisting of a courtyard and bedroom. Mastani's room in Bundelkhand was crafted using a mix of Persian, Mughal and Rajput motifs and architecture.<ref name="preproduction2" /><br />
<br />
All of the sets were furnished with opulent objects and props to give the interiors a feel of the ancient [[Maratha empire]]. Only earthen diyas and torches were used to light the sets.<ref name="preproduction2" /> Silken saris were used, with bedsheets and hand-painted walls with 18th century motifs added.<ref name="history" /> Craftsmen were hired to recreate 18th-century textures, fabrics, weaponry, jewellery and furniture. Almost 30,000 oil lamps were made for the film and 500 suits of armour were designed for the war scenes.<ref name="history" /> There were also headgear and boots worn in that period. The armour and headgear weighed between ten-twenty kilos and two kilos, respectively.<ref name="history" /> The team also designed props including different types of tents, lighting props, and elephant and horse decors for the war sequences. The props were made in Mumbai and had to be taken to Rajasthan, the outdoor location.<ref name="preproduction2" /><br />
<br />
=== Costumes ===<br />
[[File:Ravi Varma-Princess Damayanthi talking with Royal Swan about Nala.jpg|thumb|left|200px|The paintings of [[Raja Ravi Varma]] was used as an inspiration for creating Kashibai's look]]<br />
The film's costumes were designed by [[Anju Modi]] and [[Maxima Basu]].<ref name="connect">{{cite news |title=Bong girl's Bajirao connect |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/1151219/jsp/t2/story_59158.jsp |last=Mazumdar |first=Ratnalekha |work=The Telegraph |date=19 December 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901021418/https://www.telegraphindia.com/1151219/jsp/t2/story_59158.jsp |archive-date=1 September 2017}}</ref> Modi designed clothes for the three lead characters and Basu designed for the supporting cast. The costumes for extras and war extras were done by Ajay and Chandrakant, respectively.<ref name="connect" /> Bhansali had detailed script-reading sessions with the designers to help them understand the characters, their emotions and personalities, which would mirror the costumes and the grandeur of the 18th century.<ref name="look">{{cite news |title=The Bajirao look |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/1151220/jsp/t2/story_59351.jsp |last=Chakraborty |first=Saionee |work=The Telegraph |date=20 December 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901023127/https://www.telegraphindia.com/1151220/jsp/t2/story_59351.jsp |archive-date=1 September 2017}}</ref> Basu started her research by visiting several ancient monuments such as the [[Chowmahalla Palace]], [[Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya]], [[Salar Jung Museum]] and [[Ajanta Caves|Ajanta]]-[[Ellora Caves|Ellora]] caves, which gave her some perspective of ancient Maharastrian culture.<ref name="look" /> She also travelled to cities such as [[Indore]], [[Chanderi]], [[Paithan]] and [[Maheshwar]] to gather more knowledge about the history of clothing and textiles.<ref name="real">{{cite news |title=Bajirao Mastani: Maratha history meets Nizami sway |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/bajirao-mastani-maratha-history-meets-nizami-sway/article7996083.ece |last=Dundoo |first=Sangeetha Devi |work=[[The Hindu]] |date=16 December 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911231343/http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/bajirao-mastani-maratha-history-meets-nizami-sway/article7996083.ece |archive-date=11 September 2017}}</ref><br />
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About 300 costumes were designed for the three leads alone.<ref name="history" /> Real [[zari]] and gold wires were used to weave the costumes.<ref name="look" /> Since no pictures of Kashibai existed, the paintings of [[Raja Ravi Varma]] were used as a reference for designing her looks and costumes.<ref name="history" /> Modi had designed eighty [[Kasta sari|nauvari or nine-yard saris]] with bright colours such as yellows, hot pink, emerald green and purple, inspired from the Raja Ravi Varma paintings, for Chopra.<ref name="real" /> The custom-made nine-yard saris were weaved by craftsmen from [[Maheshwar]], [[Chander]] and [[Varanasi]]; they were made a little lighter than usual to avoid making Chopra look large on screen.<ref name="dressing" /><ref name="grandeur">{{cite web |title=Designing grandeur |url=https://www.filmfare.com/features/designing-grandeur-11194-1.html |last=Bhatt |first=Henal |work=Filmfare |date=10 November 2015 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901154013/https://www.filmfare.com/features/designing-grandeur-11194-1.html |archive-date=1 September 2017}}</ref> For making the saris, fabrics such as silk, muslin, [[khadi]] and chanderi worn in that period were designed.<ref name="history" /><ref name="real" /> For one song sequence featuring Chopra, Modi had created six sets of the same sari.<ref name="dressing">{{cite news |title=Dressing Up the Marathas: Anju Modi on how she dressed up Deepika as Mastani and Ranveer as Bajirao |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/entertainment-others/dressing-up-the-marathas/ |last=Joy |first=Jagmeeta Thind |work=The Indian Express |date=21 October 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901031850/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/entertainment-others/dressing-up-the-marathas/ |archive-date=1 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
Peshwas used to wear ''[[Dhoti]]s'', ''[[Jama (coat)|Jamas]]'' and ''[[Angarkha]]s'' with a large flare in that period, so it was eminent for Bajirao's character.<ref name="look" /><ref name="dressing" /> A wide palette of solid colours, such as white and cream, were used for the sombre and emotional scenes whereas red, orange, blue and deep purple were used for the celebratory scenes.<ref name="grandeur" /> For designing the Bajirao's armour, [[Chain Mail Armor|chain mail]], khaki and [[steel grey]] were employed.<ref name="grandeur" /> A [[Pata (sword)|dandpatta]] sword was also made for him.<ref name="history" /> For Mastani, Modi used a mix of Persian and Muslim clothing of muslin, khadi and thin chanderi fabrics, with {{transliteration|hi|mukaish}} and [[Zardozi|zardosi]] hand embroidery to depict her half-Muslim heritage.<ref name="look" /><ref name="real" /> Padukone was predominantly given [[sharara]]s and its derivatives such trailing shararas, shararas with less flare and crinkled shararas made of [[Chiffon (fabric)|chiffon]]. She was given a [[lehenga]] for just one scene.<ref name="look" /> She was also given Odhnis, [[dupatta]]s, [[veil]]s, floor-skimming [[Anarkali Salwar Suit|anarkalis]] and {{transliteration|hi|angrakhas}} paired with [[Farshi Pajama]]s.<ref name="jewels">{{cite web |title=Exclusive: Fashion designer Anju Modi decodes Bajirao Mastani's look |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-costume-designer-anju-modi-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-priyanka-chopra-goliyon-ki-raasleela-ram-leela--kashibai-navvari/1/453479.html |last=Goel |first=Hemul |work=India Today |date=23 July 2015 |access-date=31 August 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019015716/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-costume-designer-anju-modi-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-priyanka-chopra-goliyon-ki-raasleela-ram-leela--kashibai-navvari/1/453479.html |archive-date=19 October 2016}}</ref><ref name="dressing" /> Softer colours with Persian influences such as shades of powder blue, mint green, pale yellow, aqua blue, powder pink and other typical porcelain colours were used for her clothes.<ref name="real" /><ref name="grandeur" /> A [[turban]] embellished with jewellery such as uncut diamonds and pearls was designed.<ref name="look" /> For one of the Mastani costumes, Modi designed a five-layered outfit consisting of an {{transliteration|hi|angrakha}} jacket, a woven [[leheria]] dupatta, sharara and inner [[Kurta|kurti]].<ref name="jewels" /><br />
<br />
Expensive and real jewellery was used in the film.<ref name="real" /> The designers created the jewellery for each character.<ref name="jewels" /> Modi said they did not want to compromise, so the best materials such as real Basra [[pearls]], antique stones and [[uncut diamond]]s were used to give the royal look needed for the characters.<ref name="jewels" /> Traditional Marathi-style jewellery was used to style Kashibai, while for Mastani [[Nizam (title)|Nizami]] and [[polki]] Jewellery was used.<ref name="real" /> Several Indian jewellery designers, including [[P. N. Gadgil Jewellers|PN Gadgil]] from Pune and Shri Hari Jewellers from Delhi, were hired.<ref name="jewels" /> The costume and production designers also researched in museums, art galleries, history books, paintings, palaces, temples and forts to study the textiles, colour palettes and artwork of the ancient Maratha Empire.<ref name="history" /><ref name="real" /><br />
<br />
=== Principal photography ===<br />
Cinematographer [[Sudeep Chatterjee]] shot the film using [[Arri Alexa]] XT lenses.<ref name="alexa">{{cite web |title=ALEXA XT on Indian film Bajirao |url=http://www.arri.com/news/news/alexa-xt-on-indian-film-bajirao/ |publisher=[[Arri Alexa]] |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170708080436/http://www.arri.com/news/news/alexa-xt-on-indian-film-bajirao/ |archive-date=8 July 2017}}</ref> Chatterjee had done extensive research before starting the film.<ref name="alexa" /> [[Principal photography]] began on 9 October 2014 with Chopra on the set in Film City, [[Mumbai]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Priyanka Chopra's 'princely' start to 'Bajirao Mastani', gives us a glimpse of her royal look |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/priyanka-chopras-princely-start-to-bajirao-mastani/ |work=The Indian Express |date=9 October 2014 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902005218/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/priyanka-chopras-princely-start-to-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=It's magical: Priyanka on shooting Bajirao Mastani |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/priyanka-chopra-tweets-about-shooting-bajirao-mastani/1/395309.html |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |work=India Today |date=11 October 2014 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141203105643/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/priyanka-chopra-tweets-about-shooting-bajirao-mastani/1/395309.html |archive-date=3 December 2014}}</ref><ref name="cinematography">{{cite news |title='Bajirao Mastani' could've been shot better: Sudeep Chatterjee |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/bajirao-mastani-could-ve-been-shot-better-sudeep-chatterjee-116020301404_1.html |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |work=[[Business Standard]] |date=3 February 2016 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902005413/http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/bajirao-mastani-could-ve-been-shot-better-sudeep-chatterjee-116020301404_1.html |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref><ref name="major">{{cite news |title=Major portions of Bajirao Mastani shoot in Mumbai's Film City studios |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/screen/major-portions-of-bajirao-mastani-shoot-in-mumbais-film-city-studios/ |work=The Indian Express |date=11 December 2014 |access-date=11 December 2014|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141216113302/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/screen/major-portions-of-bajirao-mastani-shoot-in-mumbais-film-city-studios/ |archive-date=16 December 2014}}</ref> Later that month, Singh joined the shoot.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ranveer Singh shaves his head for Bajirao Mastani |url=http://www.financialexpress.com/archive/ranveer-singh-shaves-his-head-for-bajirao-mastani/1300863/ |work=[[The Financial Express (India)|The Financial Express]] |date=22 October 2014 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902002647/http://www.financialexpress.com/archive/ranveer-singh-shaves-his-head-for-bajirao-mastani/1300863/ |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref> Most of the film was shot on the highly detailed sets.<ref name="major" /> In late November, Chopra fainted on the set due to exhaustion while filming a scene that needed to be filmed ten times continuously. A doctor was called and filming stopped for some time but she later resumed the shoot.<ref>{{cite web |title=Priyanka Chopra faints while shooting for 'Bajirao Mastani' |url=http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/celebrity/priyanka-chopra-faints-while-shooting-for-bajirao-mastani_1505041.html |last=Mudi |first=Aparna |publisher=[[Zee News]] |date=26 November 2014 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902014237/http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/celebrity/priyanka-chopra-faints-while-shooting-for-bajirao-mastani_1505041.html |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref> Padukone joined the cast for two days during late December 2014 and resumed shooting in April 2015 after completing work for her other projects.<ref>{{cite news |title=Deepika Padukone joins beau Ranveer Singh for 'Bajirao Mastani' shoot |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-deepika-padukone-joins-beau-ranveer-singh-for-bajirao-mastani-shoot-2046716 |work=Daily News and Analysis |date=24 December 2014 |access-date=31 December 2014|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228171145/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-deepika-padukone-joins-beau-ranveer-singh-for-bajirao-mastani-shoot-2046716 |archive-date=28 December 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Deepika Padukone in Rajasthan to shoot for 'Bajirao Mastani' |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/deepika-padukone-in-rajasthan-to-shoot-for-bajirao-mastani/ |last=Bajwa |first=Dimpal |work=The Indian Express |date=1 April 2014 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902013439/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/deepika-padukone-in-rajasthan-to-shoot-for-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref><br />
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Outdoor location filming began in February 2015 at [[Amer Fort]] in [[Jaipur]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Ranveer Looks Super Excited As The Bajirao Mastani Shoot Begins in Jaipur |url=http://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/ranveer-looks-super-excited-as-the-bajirao-mastani-shoot-begins-in-jaipur-230332.html |last=Dutt |first=Shobhita |work=The Times of India |date=18 February 2015 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902003759/http://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/ranveer-looks-super-excited-as-the-bajirao-mastani-shoot-begins-in-jaipur-230332.html |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref> Crowd scenes were also filmed there.<ref>{{cite news |title='Bajirao Mastani' Shooting Continues in Jaipur without Lead Actor Ranveer Singh [PHOTOS] |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/bajirao-mastani-shooting-continues-jaipur-without-lead-actor-ranveer-singh-photos-626634 |last=Goswami |first=Parismita |work=International Business Times |date=18 March 2015 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902003313/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/bajirao-mastani-shooting-continues-jaipur-without-lead-actor-ranveer-singh-photos-626634 |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref> Singh fell off a horse while filming an action sequence and was rushed to hospital; he was not seriously injured.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ranveer Singh injured while shooting for Bajirao Mastani, thanks his fans for concern |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ranveer-singh-inured-bajirao-mastani-twitter-deepika-padukone/1/421500.html |work=India Today |date=28 February 2018 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126000530/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ranveer-singh-inured-bajirao-mastani-twitter-deepika-padukone/1/421500.html |archive-date=26 January 2016}}</ref> In May 2015, however, he injured his shoulder and needed surgery; he resumed shooting after break of two months.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani: Here's how Ranveer Singh returned to shoot, post shoulder injury |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-heres-how-ranveer-singh-returned-to-shoot-post-shoulder-injury/1/462230.html |last=Nijhara |first=Apoorva |work=India Today |date=1 September 2015 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911231343/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-heres-how-ranveer-singh-returned-to-shoot-post-shoulder-injury/1/462230.html |archive-date=11 September 2017}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Amber Fort (आमेर का किला ).jpg|thumb|300px|alt=A photograph of Amer Fort|Some of the outdoor scenes were filmed at the [[Amer Fort]]]]<br />
Chopra resumed filming in the first week of April 2015 for a month.<ref>{{cite web |title=Back to roots: Priyanka to begin shooting of Bajirao Mastani in April |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/priyanka-chopra-to-begin-shooting-bajirao-mastani-in-april/1/425069.html |work=India Today |date=21 March 2015 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227212012/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/priyanka-chopra-to-begin-shooting-bajirao-mastani-in-april/1/425069.html |archive-date=27 December 2015}}</ref> While working on ''Bajirao Mastani'', Chopra was simultaneously filming the American television series ''[[Quantico (TV series)|Quantico]]'' in [[Montreal]], requiring much back-and forth travel.<ref>{{cite news |title=7 Facts About Priyanka Chopra's 'Quantico' We Bet You Didn't Know! |url=http://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/7-facts-about-priyanka-chopras-quantico-we-bet-you-didnt-know-245641.html |last=Dutt |first=Shobhita |work=The Times of India |date=2 October 2015 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902004047/http://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/celebs/7-facts-about-priyanka-chopras-quantico-we-bet-you-didnt-know-245641.html |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref> She would act for ''Bajirao Mastani'' at weekends and return to Montreal on weekdays for her series, returning to India in the second week of October to complete the final schedule.<ref>{{cite news |title=Priyanka Chopra to be back in Bollywood after Quantico success |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/priyanka-chopra-to-be-back-in-bollywood-after-quantico-success/story-KFGIMevXRJ87DiEJYpf7DP.html |work=Hindustan Times |date=5 October 2015 |access-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902010759/http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/priyanka-chopra-to-be-back-in-bollywood-after-quantico-success/story-KFGIMevXRJ87DiEJYpf7DP.html |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
Before starting the film, the team discussed which parts of it had to be filmed and which parts needed to be made using visual effects.<ref name="alexa" /> They decided that only sequences that were considered difficult or impossible to film would be created using visual effects in post production.<ref name="alexa" /> In one sequence, it was impossible to control the movements of the 300–400 horses standing at one position in a battle scene; this sequence was filmed with a small number of horses and was later enhanced in post production.<ref name="alexa" /><ref name="vfx">{{cite web |title=NY VFXWAALA takes filmmaking to another level with 'Bajirao Mastani'; Sanjay Leela Bhansali's belief in VFX strengthens |url=http://www.animationxpress.com/index.php/latest-news/ny-vfxwaala-bajirao-mastani-sanjay-leela-bhansalis-vfx |last=Rodrigues |first=Ronald |publisher=Animation Express |date=10 September 2016 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902185853/http://www.animationxpress.com/index.php/latest-news/ny-vfxwaala-bajirao-mastani-sanjay-leela-bhansalis-vfx |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
Sham Kaushal co-ordinated the action sequences for the war scenes.<ref name="history" /> Three war sequences were filmed in [[Rajasthan]], [[Madhya Pradesh]] and [[Maharashtra]]. Chatterjee found the war sequences challenging and faced many difficulties while filming in the deserts of Rajasthan. Wanting to break with norms, Bhansali wanted a night-time war sequence; lighting a large, open field became very difficult and visibility issues were inevitable. Bhansali wanted very clear images. Instead, they decided to shoot these scenes in the morning, aiming for a twilight look.<ref name="alexa" /> The main war scene featuring 800 extras, 500 horses and twenty-five elephants was filmed over twenty days near Jaipur.<ref name="history" /> The extras would begin costuming, which included beards for the Mughals, moustaches for the Marathas, armours, helmets and uniforms, at 04:00 for the start of filming at 08:00.<ref name="history" /> After finishing the shoot, the costumes would be washed in readiness for 04:00 the following day. Kaushal has said extensive research was done before filming the war sequences, and a rough graph was designed nine months before the filming.<ref name="history" /> However, the entire sequence could not be filmed in one take on location and was completed later in a studio in Film City, and was enhanced in post production.<ref name="preproduction3" /><br />
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[[Ganesh Acharya]], [[Remo D'Souza]], [[Pony Verma]], Shampa Gopikrishna and [[Pandit Birju Maharaj]] were the choreographers for the film's song sequences.<ref name="cast&crew" /> Bhansali chose D'Souza, who had only choreographed modern dance numbers at that time, to choreograph the song "Pinga", which took weeks to complete. Chopra and Padukone had to rehearse for several days before shooting.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sanjay Leela Bhansali gets Remo D'Souza to shed his urban choreographer image with 'Pinga' |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Sanjay-Leela-Bhansali-gets-Remo-DSouza-to-shed-his-urban-choreographer-image-with-Pinga/articleshow/49830882.cms |work=The Times of India |date=19 November 2015 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121042622/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Sanjay-Leela-Bhansali-gets-Remo-DSouza-to-shed-his-urban-choreographer-image-with-Pinga/articleshow/49830882.cms |archive-date=21 November 2015}}</ref> The filming was challenging for Chopra and Padukone; they had to shoot for the dance sequences multiple times whenever the [[Diya (lamp)|diyas]] and torches used to light up the background would snuff.<ref name="pinga">{{cite web |title=Production Designers: Scene Sealers |url=http://www.openthemagazine.com/article/art-culture/production-designers-scene-sealers |last=Chaudhuri |first=Mohini |work=[[Open (Indian magazine)|OPEN]] |date=11 March 2016 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902230906/http://www.openthemagazine.com/article/art-culture/production-designers-scene-sealers |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref> The song was shot at night on an open-air set decorated with diyas and torches, many of which would snuff out while filming the song.<ref name="pinga" /> When it was suggested snuffed diyas should be corrected in post production, Bhansali outright refused. More than twelve people would run around the set with candles and oil to relight them.<ref name="pinga" /><br />
<br />
The sound recording was done on location. Sound designer Nihar Ranjan Samal said they had to be careful that sounds of vehicles and honking did not make their way into the recording. A number of scenes needed re-recording because of some disturbance.<ref>{{cite news |title=Odia man on Bajirao high |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/1160101/jsp/odisha/story_61555.jsp |last=Ambaly |first=Anwesha |work=The Telegraph |date=1 January 2016 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902231240/https://www.telegraphindia.com/1160101/jsp/odisha/story_61555.jsp |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref> ''Bajirao Mastani'' was shot in 217 days between October 2014 and October 2015.<ref name="cinematography" /><br />
<br />
=== Post-production ===<br />
The film contains 1,400 visual effects shots.<ref name="effects">{{cite web |title=VFX Breakdown of Bajirao Mastani |url=http://www.animationxpress.com/index.php/video-gallery/vfx-breakdown-of-bajirao-mastani |publisher=Animation Express |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170617004212/http://www.animationxpress.com/index.php/video-gallery/vfx-breakdown-of-bajirao-mastani |archive-date=17 June 2017 |date=10 September 2016}}</ref> The company that worked on the effects was [[NY VFXWAALA]]; this was the biggest projects they had undertaken. [[Prasad Sutar]] was the visual effects supervisor; the effects took eight months and a team of sixty artists to create.<ref name="vfx" /> Although the film was shot on highly detailed sets, visual effects and [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]] was incorporated in post-production to enhance the imagery for the scenes that were impossible to shoot in live action.<ref name="vfx" /><br />
<br />
The effects included the creation of interior architecture, backgrounds, set extensions and war weapons; changes to lighting and time of day, weather effects and the multiplication of army soldiers.<ref name="effects" /><ref name="vfx" /> The opening night-time war scene, which had 300 visual effects shots, was [[Day for night|filmed in bright daylight]] then converted into night.<ref name="preproduction3" /> Arrows flying over the battlefield were created using CGI whereas the army, soldiers and horses were multiplied. The war close-up shots were filmed in a studio but were later mixed with the war scenes to form a detailed scene.<ref name="vfx" /> In some shots, the sky was digitally replaced and CGI forts were added in others.<ref name="preproduction3" /><ref name="alexa" /> Similarly, the climax sequence, which was shot live in water, was enhanced using CGI horses, arrows and fireballs. The climax scene took around twenty days to complete with fine details.<ref name="vfx" /><br />
<br />
Bhansali wanted a grand opening title design, which the team decided to create using animation.<ref name="vfx" /> They crafted hand-drawn storyboards and drew a narration of Bajirao and his kingdom, and designed it digitally using animation within a limited timeline.<ref name="vfx" /> A sequence in which Singh crosses the sea in a boat at night was created using visual effects. Splashing waves, falling rain falling (except for the water falling on Singh and the night sky were created in post production.<ref name="vfx" /> The scenes that were shot on set and featured outside views, such as views from windows, were completed in post production.<ref name="alexa" /> For dark, emotional scenes, a low-key background was created, whereas bright, colourful backgrounds were created with effects for light scenes.<ref name="vfx" /> The film was edited by Rajesh G. Pandey.<ref name="cast&crew" /><br />
<br />
== Soundtrack ==<br />
{{Main|Bajirao Mastani (soundtrack)}}<br />
The [[film score|original score]] of the film was composed by [[Sanchit Balhara]] and the soundtrack album was composed by Bhansali.<ref name="bhmusicreview">{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Music Review |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/bajirao-mastani/songs/music-critic-review/ |last=Tuteja |first=Joginder |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=30 November 2015 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170822133425/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/bajirao-mastani/songs/music-critic-review/ |archive-date=22 August 2017}}</ref> The lyrics are written by Siddharth–Garima, [[A. M. Turaz]] and Prashant Ingole.<ref name="bhmusicreview" /> The album consists of ten original songs with vocals by [[Shreya Ghoshal]], [[Arijit Singh]], [[Vishal Dadlani]], Shashi Suman, Kunal Pandit, Prithvi Gandharva, Kanika Joshi, Rashi Raagga, Geetikka Manjrekar, [[Payal Dev]], Shreyas Puranik, [[Vaishali Mhade]], [[Javed Bashir]], Ganesh Chandanshive and [[Sukhwinder Singh]].<ref name="bhmusicreview" /> The soundtrack was released by [[Eros Music]] on 31 October 2015.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) |date=24 November 2015 |url=https://itunes.apple.com/in/album/bajirao-mastani-original-motion-picture-soundtrack/id1073716223 |publisher=[[iTunes Store]] |access-date=5 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911231343/https://itunes.apple.com/in/album/bajirao-mastani-original-motion-picture-soundtrack/id1073716223 |archive-date=11 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
The soundtrack album was well received by music critics, who praised the soulful compositions and called them "melodious and fresh".<ref name="bhmusicreview" /> R. M. Vijayakar of ''India-West'' gave the album 4.5 out of 5, calling it "unforgettable" and complimented the use of musical instruments and orchestration, noting portions of the score as the most significant standout.<ref>{{cite news |title='Bajirao Mastani' Music Review: An Unforgettable Stunner of a Score |url=http://www.indiawest.com/entertainment/bollywood/bajirao-mastani-music-review-an-unforgettable-stunner-of-a-score/article_3a2df1e4-9545-11e5-bbaa-8bf6483b6a55.html |last=Vijayakar |first=R.M. |work=India-West |date=27 November 2015 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728172843/http://www.indiawest.com/entertainment/bollywood/bajirao-mastani-music-review-an-unforgettable-stunner-of-a-score/article_3a2df1e4-9545-11e5-bbaa-8bf6483b6a55.html |archive-date=28 July 2017}}</ref> ''[[Firstpost]]'' gave a highly positive review, praising the "elegantly arranged and opulently orchestrated" songs and writing, "exhilarating soundtrack&nbsp;... recreates an era gone-by through sounds that are authentic&nbsp;... yet operatic, steeped in the classical ethos, yet contemporary".<ref>{{cite news |title=Bajirao Mastani music review: The soundtrack melodiously connects the past with present |url=http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/bajirao-mastani-music-review-the-soundtrack-melodiously-connects-the-past-with-present-2523510.html |last=Jha |first=Subhash K. |work=[[Firstpost]] |date=27 November 2015 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170728231714/http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/bajirao-mastani-music-review-the-soundtrack-melodiously-connects-the-past-with-present-2523510.html |archive-date=28 July 2017}}</ref> Joginder Tuteja of ''[[Bollywood Hungama]]'' gave a rating of 3.5 out of 5, calling it "high on classical base" and saying half of the compositions were situational and narrative-based that can "be expected to make a good impression on screen".<ref name="bhmusicreview" /> ''[[The Indian Express]]'' also gave it a 3.5 out of 5, noting its distinct sound and its "balance between restraint and exuberance" and wrote, "''Bajirao Mastani'' sounds fresh, like carefully restored music from Bajirao's times".<ref>{{cite news |title='Bajirao Mastani' music review: swings between sombre, earthy, poignant, soulful and brash |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/music/revisiting-the-past-bajirao-mastani/ |last=Khurana |first=Suanshu |work=The Indian Express |date=28 November 2015 |access-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170826235621/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/music/revisiting-the-past-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=26 August 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Marketing and release ==<br />
''Bajirao Mastani'' was one of the most anticipated releases of 2015. Special care was taken to avoid leaks during production; everything was done in secrecy.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sanjay Leela Bhansali fortifies Bajirao Mastani sets |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/150725/entertainment-bollywood/article/sanjay-leela-bhansali-fortifies-bajirao-mastani-sets |last=Thakkar |first=Mehul S. |work=[[Deccan Chronicle]] |date=25 July 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903212957/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/150725/entertainment-bollywood/article/sanjay-leela-bhansali-fortifies-bajirao-mastani-sets |archive-date=3 September 2017}}</ref> On 15 July 2015, a day before the teaser release, producers Eros International shared the first images of the three characters and a teaser poster of the film.<ref>{{cite web |title=Presenting the first look of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Baajirao Mastani' |url=http://www.news18.com/news/movies/presenting-the-first-poster-of-sanjay-leela-bhansalis-baajirao-mastani-1020493.html |website=News18 |date=15 July 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903210951/http://www.news18.com/news/movies/presenting-the-first-poster-of-sanjay-leela-bhansalis-baajirao-mastani-1020493.html |archive-date=3 September 2017}}</ref> The three-minute teaser trailer, with only one line of dialogue, was released on 16 July 2015.<ref name="teaser1">{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani teaser: Ranveer, Deepika, Priyanka in a riot of colours |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-teaser-watch-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-together-priyanka-chopra-in-full-regalia-sanjay-leela-bhansali-release-eros-now-twitter/1/451698.html |work=India Today |date=16 July 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151212145037/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-teaser-watch-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-together-priyanka-chopra-in-full-regalia-sanjay-leela-bhansali-release-eros-now-twitter/1/451698.html |archive-date=12 December 2015}}</ref> The teaser garnered high praise from all quarters and was deemed "grand" and "epic".<ref name="teaser1" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Spectacular, epic, stunning: B-Town blown away by Bajirao Mastani teaser |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-teaser-blows-away-b-town-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-priyanka-chopra-arjun-kapoor-alia-bhatt-sanjay-leela-bhansali-parineeti-chopra-twitter/1/452094.html |work=India Today |date=17 July 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150901044233/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-teaser-blows-away-b-town-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-priyanka-chopra-arjun-kapoor-alia-bhatt-sanjay-leela-bhansali-parineeti-chopra-twitter/1/452094.html |archive-date=1 September 2015}}</ref><ref name="teaser2">{{cite web |title='Bajirao Mastani' teaser: Watch Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra's royal saga |url=http://www.news18.com/news/movies/bajirao-mastani-teaser-watch-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-and-priyanka-chopras-royal-saga-1021008.html |website=News18 |date=16 July 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903211201/http://www.news18.com/news/movies/bajirao-mastani-teaser-watch-ranveer-singh-deepika-padukone-and-priyanka-chopras-royal-saga-1021008.html |archive-date=3 September 2017}}</ref> ''[[News18]]'' called the teaser "regal, grand and breathtaking", and wrote that it had all the signature Bhansali elements such as "the big sets, larger than life characters, lots of colours and a tragic love story in the midst of all this grandeur".<ref name="teaser2" /> ''[[India Today]]'' wrote, "With its royal canvas, ''Bajirao Mastani'' teaser is a burst of colours and action reminiscent of the 18th century".<ref name="teaser1" /> In early November 2015, characters posters of the three characters were also unveiled.<ref>{{cite web |title=Photos : Ranveer Singh Unveils A 60-ft Poster Of 'Bajirao Mastani' |url=http://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-popular/photos-ranveer-singh-unveils-a-60-ft-poster-of-bajirao-mastani/ |publisher=Koimoi |date=5 November 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705173059/http://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-popular/photos-ranveer-singh-unveils-a-60-ft-poster-of-bajirao-mastani/ |archive-date=5 July 2017}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|date=July 2018}}<ref>{{cite news |title=Priyanka Chopra reveals gorgeous Kashi Bai poster |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/151108/entertainment-bollywood/article/priyanka-chopra-reveals-gorgeous-kashi-bai-poster |work=Deccan Chronicle |date=8 November 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903214027/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/151108/entertainment-bollywood/article/priyanka-chopra-reveals-gorgeous-kashi-bai-poster |archive-date=3 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Beautiful Yet Fierce : Deepika Padukone As Mastani on the Bajirao Mastani Poster |url=http://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/beautiful-yet-fierce-deepika-padukone-as-mastani-on-the-bajirao-mastani-poster/ |publisher=Koimoi |date=9 November 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170715031632/http://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/beautiful-yet-fierce-deepika-padukone-as-mastani-on-the-bajirao-mastani-poster/ |archive-date=15 July 2017}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|date=July 2018}} The trailer was released on 20 November 2015 and was also well received.<ref>{{cite news |title=Trailer of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Bajirao Mastani' out |url=http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/sanjay-leela-bhansalis-bajirao-mastani-trailer-out/article7900824.ece |work=The Hindu |date=20 November 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911231343/http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/sanjay-leela-bhansalis-bajirao-mastani-trailer-out/article7900824.ece |archive-date=11 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
As a part of the promotions, a multi-episode [[graphic novel|graphic web series]]&nbsp;– India's first&nbsp;– titled ''Blazing Bajirao'' was released digitally in November 2015.<ref name="graphicseries">{{cite news |title=Watch: 'Blazing Bajirao' graphic series impresses in first episode |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Watch-Blazing-Bajirao-graphic-series-impresses-in-first-episode/articleshow/49693661.cms |last=Kaushal |first=Ruchi |work=The Times of India |date=6 November 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151109111019/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Watch-Blazing-Bajirao-graphic-series-impresses-in-first-episode/articleshow/49693661.cms |archive-date=9 November 2015}}</ref><ref name="blazing">{{cite web |title=Watch: 'Blazing Bajirao' – Bollywood's first-of-its-kind graphic web-series |url=http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/watch-blazing-bajirao%E2%80%99-bollywood%E2%80%99s-first-of-its-kind-graphic-web-series_1651988.html |last=Sankar |first=Gayatri |publisher=Zee News |date=24 August 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904015731/http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/watch-blazing-bajirao%E2%80%99-bollywood%E2%80%99s-first-of-its-kind-graphic-web-series_1651988.html |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> Featuring the animated [[avatar]]s of Bajirao, Kashibai and Mastani, the graphic series narrates the tales of Bajirao's heroism and his relationship with his two wives.<ref name="graphicseries" /><ref name="blazing" /> This was followed by a video game titled ''Blazing Bajirao – The Game'' the next month.<ref name="game">{{cite news |title=After Web Series, Eros Now Launches 'Blazing Bajirao-The Game' |url=http://www.indiawest.com/entertainment/bollywood/after-web-series-eros-now-launches-blazing-bajirao-the-game/article_ee067eee-9de6-11e5-bfd8-cf1353c0c9e6.html |work=India-West |date=8 December 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904014030/http://www.indiawest.com/entertainment/bollywood/after-web-series-eros-now-launches-blazing-bajirao-the-game/article_ee067eee-9de6-11e5-bfd8-cf1353c0c9e6.html |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> Released on the [[App Store (iOS)|App Store]] and [[Google Play]], the interactive game requires its players to fight enemies as Peshwa Bajirao.<ref name="game" /> A multi-city press tour, which saw Singh and Padukone visiting several cities, was designed to promote the film.<ref>{{cite news |title=Eros looks at small towns for last leg of 'Bajirao Mastani' marketing |url=http://www.livemint.com/Leisure/SxKr74ORn0J5iGI7WY5vyL/Eros-looks-at-small-towns-for-last-leg-of-Bajirao-Mastani.html |last=Jha |first=Lata |work=[[Mint (newspaper)|Mint]] |date=10 December 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904012616/http://www.livemint.com/Leisure/SxKr74ORn0J5iGI7WY5vyL/Eros-looks-at-small-towns-for-last-leg-of-Bajirao-Mastani.html |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> Chopra, who could not be in India for the promotions as she was filming for ''Quantico'', promoted the film in the United States at a press conference in [[New York City]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Priyanka Chopra promotes 'Bajirao Mastani' in NYC |url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/151211/entertainment-bollywood/gallery/priyanka-chopra-promotes-bajirao-mastani-nyc |work=Deccan Chronicle |date=11 December 2015 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904115255/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/151211/entertainment-bollywood/gallery/priyanka-chopra-promotes-bajirao-mastani-nyc |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
The descendants of Bajirao, Kashibai and Mastani expressed their disapproval of "Malhari" and "Pinga" dance sequences, the midriff-baring saris worn by Kashibai and Mastani in the song "Pinga", a dialogue deeming it "vulgar" and a "private moment" shown in the trailer, claiming excessive creative liberty was taken by the director.<ref name="upset">{{cite news |title=Why Bajirao Mastani has upset two families |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/beyond-business/why-bajirao-mastani-has-upset-two-families-115121101048_1.html |author1=Ganesan, Ranjita |author2=Trivedi, Shashikant |work=Business Standard |date=12 December 2015 |access-date=24 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170423221137/http://www.business-standard.com/article/beyond-business/why-bajirao-mastani-has-upset-two-families-115121101048_1.html |archive-date=23 April 2017}}</ref><ref name="term">{{cite news |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/bajirao-and-mastanis-descendants-blast-sanjay-leela-bhansali-term-him-irresponsible-for-vulgar-portrayal-of-bajirao-kashibai-and-mastani/ |title=Bajirao and Mastani's descendants blast Sanjay Leela Bhansali, term him irresponsible for 'vulgar portrayal' of Bajirao, Kashibai and Mastani |last=Sahadevan |first=Sonup |work=The Indian Express |date=4 December 2015 |access-date=4 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151205071251/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/bajirao-and-mastanis-descendants-blast-sanjay-leela-bhansali-term-him-irresponsible-for-vulgar-portrayal-of-bajirao-kashibai-and-mastani/ |archive-date=5 December 2015}}</ref> Though not against the release of the film, the descendants publicly asked the makers to remove those two songs and screen the film for them so they could review and suggest Bhansali remove other "objectionable content" from the film.<ref name="little">{{cite web |title=Historians know very little about Mastani—or her relationship with Bajirao |url=https://qz.com/575194/historians-know-very-little-about-mastani-or-her-relationship-with-bajirao/ |last=Chari |first=Mridula |work=[[Quartz (publication)|Quartz]] |date=16 December 2015 |access-date=24 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170503215054/https://qz.com/575194/historians-know-very-little-about-mastani-or-her-relationship-with-bajirao/ |archive-date=3 May 2017}}</ref> Bhansali did not respond.<ref name="term" /> Additionally, a petition was filed by an activist in [[Bombay High Court]] seeking stay on the film for the two aforementioned songs, accusing it of "distorting history"; the High Court rejected the petition and refused to interfere with the film's release.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/bombay-high-court-okays-release-of-bajirao-mastani-over-petition-seeking-stay-on-film/ |title=Bajirao Mastani: Bombay HC okays release of film over petition seeking stay |last=Khan |first=Aamir |work=The Indian Express |date=19 December 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902044621/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/bombay-high-court-okays-release-of-bajirao-mastani-over-petition-seeking-stay-on-film/ |archive-date=2 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
One of the [[List of most expensive Indian films|most expensive Hindi films ever made]], ''Bajirao Mastani'' cost {{INR}}125 crore to make and an additional {{INR}}20 crore for marketing and advertisements; its total budget was {{INR}}145&nbsp;crore.<ref name="boi" /><ref>{{cite web |title=What are the budgets of Dilwale and Bajirao Mastaani and how will they share 5000 screens? |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/art_detail.php?articalid=1640 |publisher=Box Office India |date=9 December 2015 |access-date=16 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219155453/http://boxofficeindia.com/art_detail.php?articalid=1640 |archive-date=19 December 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Highest Budget Movies Of All Time |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/budget.php |publisher=Box Office India |access-date=6 May 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170619090835/http://boxofficeindia.com/budget.php |archive-date=19 June 2017}}</ref> Even before its release, the film recovered almost all of its production costs&nbsp;– {{INR}}120&nbsp;crore&nbsp;– from sales of its satellite rights, [[Music licensing|music rights]] and overseas rights being sold for {{INR}}50 crore and {{INR}}70&nbsp;crore, respectively.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.koimoi.com/box-office/box-office-know-how-much-bajirao-mastani-needs-to-earn-to-be-a-hit/ |title=Box Office – Know How Much Bajirao Mastani Needs To Earn To Be A Hit |last=Burman |first=Shalini |publisher=Koimoi |date=15 December 2015 |access-date=15 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222102100/http://www.koimoi.com/box-office/box-office-know-how-much-bajirao-mastani-needs-to-earn-to-be-a-hit/ |archive-date=22 December 2015}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|date=July 2018}} The film was released on 18 December 2015 on 2,700 screens worldwide.<ref name="boi" /> Although the makers had booked the date a year in advance, the makers of ''[[Dilwale (2015 film)|Dilwale]]'' decided to release their film on the same date, causing a highly publicized clash between the two films.<ref>{{cite news |title=We had announced our dates earlier: Producer Krishika Lulla on 'Bajirao Mastani', 'Dilwale' clash |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/we-would-have-preferred-a-solo-release-for-bajirao-mastani-producer-krishika-lulla/ |last=Sahadevan |first=Sonup |work=The Indian Express |date=15 October 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904015358/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/we-would-have-preferred-a-solo-release-for-bajirao-mastani-producer-krishika-lulla/ |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=The clash between Bajirao Mastani and Dilwale is inevitable, but who will emerge victorious? |url=http://www.firstpost.com/politics/the-clash-between-bajirao-mastani-and-dilwale-is-inevitable-but-who-will-emerge-victorious-2538886.html |last=Jha |first=Subhash K. |work=Firstpost |date=9 December 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904021016/http://www.firstpost.com/politics/the-clash-between-bajirao-mastani-and-dilwale-is-inevitable-but-who-will-emerge-victorious-2538886.html |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> ''Bajirao Mastani'' had to share the 5,000 domestic screens with ''Dilwale'' in a 40:60 ratio.<ref name="variety">{{cite web |title='Dilwale,' 'Bajirao Mastani' Carve up Bollywood Box Office |url=https://variety.com/2015/film/asia/dilwale-bajirao-mastani-bollywood-box-office-1201665947/ |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |author-link=Naman Ramachandran |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=21 December 2015 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904015559/http://variety.com/2015/film/asia/dilwale-bajirao-mastani-bollywood-box-office-1201665947/ |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
Distributed by [[Eros International|Eros Home Video]], the film was released on [[DVD]] and [[Blu-ray]] on 18 March 2016.<ref name="dvd">{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani DVD (2015) |url=https://www.induna.com/1000020080-productdetails/ |publisher=[[Induna.com]] |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923113214/http://www.induna.com/1000020080-productdetails/ |archive-date=23 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Blu-ray |url=http://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Bajirao-Mastani-Blu-ray/148346/ |publisher=Blu-ray.com |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903205554/http://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Bajirao-Mastani-Blu-ray/148346/ |archive-date=3 September 2017}}</ref> The DVD version was released in all [[DVD region code|regions]] as a two-disc pack in [[NTSC]] widescreen format; bonus content included documentaries about the [[Making-of|making of the film]], its sets, costumes, music, movie images and deleted scenes.<ref name="dvd" /> A [[Video CD|VCD]] version was released at the same time.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani VCD (2015) |url=https://www.induna.com/1000022585-productdetails/ |publisher=Induna.com |access-date=3 September 2017}}</ref> The film was also released digitally on platforms such as [[iTunes]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani |date=18 December 2015 |url=https://itunes.apple.com/in/movie/bajirao-mastani/id1111896048 |publisher=iTunes Store |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911231343/https://itunes.apple.com/in/movie/bajirao-mastani/id1111896048 |archive-date=11 September 2017}}</ref> It is also available on the company's streaming service [[Eros Now]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani |url=https://erosnow.com/movie/watch/1023354/bajirao-mastani |publisher=[[Eros Now]] |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903210236/https://erosnow.com/movie/watch/1023354/bajirao-mastani |archive-date=3 September 2017}}</ref> ''Bajirao Mastani'' had its world television premiere on 23 April 2016 on [[Colors TV]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Colors to air multi-National Award winning film 'Bajirao Mastani' on 23rd April |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/trade-news/hindi/Colors-to-air-multi-National-Award-winning-film-Bajirao-Mastani-on-23rd-April/articleshow/51883274.cms |work=The Times of India |date=18 April 2016 |access-date=3 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160427004706/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/trade-news/hindi/colors-to-air-multi-national-award-winning-film-bajirao-mastani-on-23rd-april/articleshow/51883274.cms |archive-date=27 April 2016}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Reception ==<br />
=== Critical response ===<br />
''Bajirao Mastani'' received widespread critical acclaim upon release.<ref name="variety" /> <br />
<br />
Writing for ''Firstpost'', Subhash K. Jha gave it 5 stars out of 5, calling it a "masterpiece", and comparing it favorably with ''[[Mughal-e-Azam]]'' (1960).<ref>{{cite news |last=Jha |first=Subhash K. |title=Bajirao Mastani review: This gloriously epic Priyanka, Deepika and Ranveer-starrer is the best film of 2015 |url=http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/bajirao-mastani-review-this-is-the-best-film-of-2015-2550464.html |work=Firstpost |date=19 October 2015 |access-date=19 October 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160408221423/http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/bajirao-mastani-review-this-is-the-best-film-of-2015-2550464.html |archive-date=8 April 2016}}</ref> [[Anupama Chopra]] from ''[[Hindustan Times]]'' gave 4.5 stars out of 5, terming it "soaring, searing and visually sumptuous", and writing, "''Bajirao Mastani'' plays out a like an operatic, swooning, feverish love poem." She felt that Singh wasn't "instantly convincing", but nonetheless praised him (as the film progressed) for "combin[ing] towering strength with aching vulnerability and helplessness", Chopra for having the "maximum impact" despite fewer scenes, and called Padukone "riveting". However, she criticized Azmi's acting.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chopra |first=Anupama |title=Bajirao Mastani review by Anupama Chopra: Soaring, searing, sumptuous |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/movie-reviews/bajirao-mastani-review-by-anupama-chopra-soaring-searing-sumptuous/story-gZmskukJnTmbRtcS15D3XK.html |work=Hindustan Times |date=22 December 2015 |access-date=11 January 2016|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160116085552/http://www.hindustantimes.com/movie-reviews/bajirao-mastani-review-by-anupama-chopra-soaring-searing-sumptuous/story-gZmskukJnTmbRtcS15D3XK.html |archive-date=16 January 2016}}</ref> ''[[The Times of India]]'' also gave 4 stars out of 5, pointing out its "outstanding" cinematography and writing, "Every visual resembles a grand painting – courts with shadows and chandeliers, courtiers with tilaks and teers, chambers gleaming with mirrors, skies blushing with passion."<ref>{{cite news |title=Bajirao Mastani Movie Review |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/Bajirao-Mastani/movie-review/50230402.cms |last=Das |first=Srijana Mitra |work=The Times of India |date=18 December 2015 |access-date=20 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219223607/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/Bajirao-Mastani/movie-review/50230402.cms |archive-date=19 December 2015}}</ref><br />
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[[File:Priyanka Chopra at the 2011 Big Star Entertainment Awards.jpg|thumb|left|alt=A picture of Priyanka Chopra looking towards the camera|[[Priyanka Chopra]] (''pictured in 2011'') received widespread praise and several awards for her performance.]]<br />
[[Taran Adarsh]] from ''Bollywood Hungama'' gave 4 stars out of 5, describing it as "a cinematic gem", and wrote that "fascinating characters and inspirational sub-plots [in the film] advances into a stunning culmination".<ref>{{cite web |last=Adarsh |first=Taran |author-link=Taran Adarsh |title=Bajirao Mastani Review |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/criticreview/id/526719 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=18 October 2015 |access-date=18 October 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151101103344/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/criticreview/id/526719 |archive-date=1 November 2015}}</ref> ''[[Zee News]]'' also gave 4 stars out of 5 and said, "An outright outshining piece of art made unblemished, sprinkled with sincerity and discipline of acting – this love folklore will restore the drama lovers, back in their ‘expectation’ block".<ref>{{cite web |title='Bajirao Mastani' movie review: Avant-garde folklore, gleaming through Ranveer's eyes and Deepika's sweat! |url=http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/bajirao-mastani-movie-review-poise-panache-and-precision-ranveer-deepika-priyanka-own-silver-screen_1835926.html |last=Sharma |first=Drishti |publisher=Zee News |date=18 December 2015 |access-date=20 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220082028/http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/bajirao-mastani-movie-review-poise-panache-and-precision-ranveer-deepika-priyanka-own-silver-screen_1835926.html |archive-date=20 December 2015}}</ref> Shubha Shetty-Saha of ''[[Mid-Day]]'' gave 3.5 stars out of 5, and wrote, "Sanjay Leela Bhansali in his characteristic style narrates his version of the story in a ''Mughal-e-Azam''-esque scale of grandiosity, replete with breathtakingly beautiful sets, elaborate and well thought of costumes and accessories and dreamy cinematography", which transports the viewers to a "unique and stunningly beautiful world."<ref>{{cite news |title='Bajirao Mastani' – Movie Review |url=http://www.mid-day.com/articles/bajirao-mastani---movie-review/16784184 |last=Shetty-Saha |first=Shubha |work=[[Mid-Day]] |date=18 December 2015 |access-date=20 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220000108/http://www.mid-day.com/articles/bajirao-mastani---movie-review/16784184 |archive-date=20 December 2015}}</ref> Ananya Bhattacharya of ''[[India Today]]'' also rated the film 3.5 out of 5, calling it "an experience", and Bhansali "a master love-storyteller". She praised the performance, saying, "Singh, Padukone, Chopra shine&nbsp;... while Azmi plays the intimidating matriarch with elan"; thought she thought the editing "could have been much crisper".<ref>{{cite web |last=Bhattacharya |first=Ananya |title=Bajirao Mastani review: Ranveer, Deepika, Priyanka shine in this epic love story |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-review-deepika-ranveer-priyankas-grand-love-story-bajirao-mastani-movie-review/1/550118.html |work=India Today |date=18 October 2015 |access-date=19 October 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218004531/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bajirao-mastani-review-deepika-ranveer-priyankas-grand-love-story-bajirao-mastani-movie-review/1/550118.html |archive-date=18 December 2015}}</ref><br />
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Writing for ''[[NDTV]]'', Saibal Chatterjee gave the film 3.5 stars out of 5, and said, "There isn't a dull moment in this colorful and dramatic film that embraces excess with unabashed abandon."<ref>{{cite web |last=Chatterjee |first=Saibal |title=Bajirao Mastani Movie Review |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/movie-reviews/bajirao-mastani-movie-review-1213 |publisher=NDTV |date=18 October 2015 |access-date=19 October 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218054639/http://movies.ndtv.com/movie-reviews/bajirao-mastani-movie-review-1213 |archive-date=18 December 2015}}</ref> Giving a rating of 3 stars out of 5, [[Rajeev Masand]] described the film as "artistic, but exhausting" and was critical of the film's length. He praised the cinematography, production design and performances; he credited Chopra for bringing "grace to the character, and practically steal[ing] the film"; Padukone for bringing "heft" to her fight scenes, although he found her character to be "strictly one-dimensional and tedious"; and Singh for finding his character's hidden vulnerabilities.<ref>{{cite web |title=Grace Period |url=http://www.rajeevmasand.com/reviews/our-films/grace-period/ |last=Masand |first=Rajeev |author-link=Rajeev Masand |publisher=RajeevMasand.com |date=8 December 2015 |access-date=20 December 2015|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220223100/http://www.rajeevmasand.com/reviews/our-films/grace-period/ |archive-date=20 December 2015}}</ref><br />
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[[Namrata Joshi]] of ''[[The Hindu]]'' called the film a "historical leap", and wrote, "Bhansali returns with another visual spectacle that willfully takes liberties with the past that it depicts. But it does manage to engage even as it exhausts."<ref>{{cite news |last=Joshi |first=Namrata |title=Bajirao Mastani: A historical leap |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/bajirao-mastani-a-historical-leap/article8004323.ece |work=The Hindu |date=19 December 2015 |access-date=19 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218215332/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/bajirao-mastani-a-historical-leap/article8004323.ece |archive-date=18 December 2015}}</ref> Conversely, Raja Sen of ''[[Rediff.com]]'' was unimpressed with the film for favoring visual splendour over storyline, rating it 2.5 stars out of 5. He praised Chopra and Singh, calling them "terrific", but criticized Padukone's performance, writing "Padukone look giddily entranced, there are times when she appears completely lost. It doesn't help that she's entirely eaten up by Chopra, who, while not in the title, owns ''Bajirao Mastani''."<ref>{{cite web |title=Review: Priyanka, Ranveer are terrific in Bajirao Mastani |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-priyanka-ranveer-are-terrific-in-bajirao-mastani/20151218.htm |last=Sen |first=Raja |work=Rediff.com |date=8 December 2015 |access-date=20 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220070433/http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-priyanka-ranveer-are-terrific-in-bajirao-mastani/20151218.htm |archive-date=20 December 2015}}</ref> Shubhra Gupta of ''The Indian Express'' was also disappointed with the film, writing, "''Bajirao Mastani'' had the potential to be a terrific historical. You want to be transported. What it ends up being is a costume drama: too many costumes, too much revved-up, empty drama, and too little plot."<ref>{{cite news |last=Gupta |first=Shubhra |title=Bajirao Mastani review: Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh's movie ends up being a costume drama |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/bajirao-mastani-movie-review-deepika-padukone-ranveer-singh-one-and-half-stars/ |work=The Indian Express |date=19 October 2015 |access-date=19 October 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151218212252/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/bajirao-mastani-movie-review-deepika-padukone-ranveer-singh-one-and-half-stars/ |archive-date=18 December 2015}}</ref><br />
<br />
=== Box office ===<br />
''Bajirao Mastani'' was a major commercial success, grossing over {{INR}}254 crore in India and over {{INR}}102.2 crore in the overseas market for a worldwide box office gross of over {{INR}}356.2&nbsp;crore.<ref name="boi" /><ref name="final">{{cite web |title=Dilwale v Bajirao Mastani Worldwide Comparison |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1808 |publisher=Box Office India |date=10 February 2016 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904105320/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1808 |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> The overseas collections comprised earnings from five major markets; United States and Canada, United Kingdom, Middle-east, Australia and the rest of the world; with earnings of {{INR}}44 crore, {{INR}}13.8 crore, {{INR}}20.2 crore, {{INR}}5.7 crore and {{INR}}18.5&nbsp;crore, respectively.<ref name="final" /> As of September 2017, it is the [[List of Bollywood films of 2015|fourth-highest-grossing Bollywood film of 2015]], the third-highest-grossing Bollywood film in overseas markets in 2015, the ninth-highest-grossing Bollywood film and one of the [[List of highest-grossing Indian films|highest-grossing Indian films]] of all time.<ref>{{cite web |title=Top Worldwide Grossers 2015 |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/years.php?year=2015&pageId=16 |publisher=Box Office India |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904111835/https://boxofficeindia.com/years.php?year=2015&pageId=16 |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Top Overseas Grossers 2015 |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/years.php?year=2015&pageId=12 |publisher=Box Office India |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904105320/https://boxofficeindia.com/years.php?year=2015&pageId=12 |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Top Worldwide Grossers All Time |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/worldwide-total-gross.php |publisher=Box Office India |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161016064410/http://boxofficeindia.com/worldwide-total-gross.php |archive-date=16 October 2016}}</ref><br />
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The film collected {{INR}}12.8&nbsp;crore nett on its opening day, which was the tenth-highest of the year.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.koimoi.com/box-office/bajirao-mastani-has-a-good-day-1-10th-highest-opener-of-the-year/ |title=Bajirao Mastani Has A Good Day 1 – 10th Highest Opener of the Year |publisher=Koimoi |date=19 December 2015 |access-date=19 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220140023/http://www.koimoi.com/box-office/bajirao-mastani-has-a-good-day-1-10th-highest-opener-of-the-year/ |archive-date=20 December 2015}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|date=July 2018}} On its second day the film saw growth in its collection as it collected {{INR}}15.52&nbsp;crore nett.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://m.ibtimes.co.in/bajirao-mastani-2nd-day-box-office-collection-ranveer-deepikas-film-shows-good-growth-saturday-660261 |title=Bajirao Mastani 2nd-day box office collection: Ranveer-Deepika's film shows good growth on Saturday |date=20 December 2015 |work=International Business Times |access-date=20 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305085451/http://m.ibtimes.co.in/bajirao-mastani-2nd-day-box-office-collection-ranveer-deepikas-film-shows-good-growth-saturday-660261 |archive-date=5 March 2016}}</ref> The film showed further growth on its third day as it collected {{INR}}18.45 crore nett to take its first weekend total to {{INR}}46.77&nbsp;crore nett.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://m.ibtimes.co.in/bajirao-mastani-opening-weekend-box-office-collection-ranveer-starrer-unstoppable-india-crosses-660376 |title=Bajirao Mastani opening weekend box office collection: Ranveer starrer unstoppable in India; crosses Rs 50 crore mark worldwide |date=21 December 2015 |work=International Business Times |access-date=21 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305022735/http://m.ibtimes.co.in/bajirao-mastani-opening-weekend-box-office-collection-ranveer-starrer-unstoppable-india-crosses-660376 |archive-date=5 March 2016}}</ref> In its opening weekend, the film debuted at number 10 at the U.S. box office and at number 7 at the UK box office.<ref name="variety" /><ref>{{cite news |title=Star Wars: The Force Awakens gives UK box office a spectacular shot in the arm |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2015/dec/22/star-wars-the-force-awakens-uk-box-office-spectre |last=Gant |first=Charles |work=[[The Guardian]] |date=22 December 2015 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904110956/https://www.theguardian.com/film/filmblog/2015/dec/22/star-wars-the-force-awakens-uk-box-office-spectre |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> The film's worldwide opening weekend earning was over {{INR}}91.5&nbsp;crore.<ref name="boi" /> The film remained very strong on its first Monday, dropping by only 15% and earning {{INR}}10.25&nbsp;crore nett.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Has Superb Hold On 1st Monday at the Box Office |url=http://www.koimoi.com/box-office/bajirao-mastani-has-superb-hold-on-1st-monday-at-the-box-office/ |last=Tuteja |first=Joginder |publisher=Koimoi |date=22 December 2015 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916063030/http://www.koimoi.com/box-office/bajirao-mastani-has-superb-hold-on-1st-monday-at-the-box-office/ |archive-date=16 September 2016}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|date=July 2018}}<br />
<br />
The film maintained its strong box office run on weekdays.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Has Very Strong Weekday Trend |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1679 |publisher=Box Office India |date=25 December 2015 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904194810/https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1679 |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> ''Bajirao Mastani'' earned {{INR}}84.36 crore nett in the first week at the domestic box office, while the first-week worldwide collections were over {{INR}}160&nbsp;crore.<ref name="boi" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani First Week Territorial Breakdown |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1689 |publisher=Box Office India |date=28 December 2015 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904153733/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1689 |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> Its first week domestic collection was the fourth-highest of the year.<ref>{{cite news |title=Box office collection: 'Bajirao Mastani' records 4th highest first week income; set for a strong second weekend |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/box-office-collection-bajirao-mastani-records-4th-highest-first-week-income-set-strong-second-660899 |work=International Business Times |access-date=1 January 2016|url-status = live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151228185448/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/box-office-collection-bajirao-mastani-records-4th-highest-first-week-income-set-strong-second-660899 |archive-date=28 December 2015 }}</ref> Revenues grew nearly 20% on its second Friday, earning {{INR}}12.5&nbsp;crore nett.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Has Growth On Day Eight Dilwale Flat – Box Office India |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/art_detail.php?articalid=1682 |publisher=Box Office India |access-date=1 January 2015|url-status = live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151226191745/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/art_detail.php?articalid=1682#.Vn5PI9DhVzR |archive-date=26 December 2015 }}</ref> The film earned over {{INR}}31.1 crore in its second weekend and collected a further {{INR}}5.25 crore on the second Monday for an eleven-day domestic total of {{INR}}141&nbsp;crore nett.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Second Monday Business |url=http://boxofficeindia.com/art_detail.php?articalid=1694 |date=29 December 2015 |publisher=Box Office India |access-date=30 December 2015|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160102181508/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/art_detail.php?articalid=1694#.VoPXGLZ97IV |archive-date=2 January 2016}}</ref> In the second week, the film earned approximately {{INR}}55.2&nbsp;crore.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Second Week Territorial Breakdown |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1707 |publisher=Box Office India |date=4 January 2016 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904155053/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1707 |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> The film registered the fourth-highest third-week collections of all time, earning a {{INR}}27&nbsp;crore.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Has Fourth Best Third Week Of All Time |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1718 |publisher=Box Office India |date=8 January 2016 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904154909/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1718 |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> After its fourth week collection of {{INR}}7 crore, the film's domestic earnings stood at {{INR}}175&nbsp;crore nett.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Hits 175 Crore in Four Weeks |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/art_detail.php?articalid=1740 |publisher=Box Office India |date=15 January 2016 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904154202/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/art_detail.php?articalid=1740#.WazJODXhXIU |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref> In its fifth weekend, the film continued to perform well in India, with the best fifth-weekend collections of all the 2015 releases.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bajirao Mastani Fifth Weekend Business |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1744 |publisher=Box Office India |date=18 January 2015 |access-date=4 September 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904111833/https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=1744 |archive-date=4 September 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Accolades ==<br />
{{Main|List of accolades received by Bajirao Mastani}}<br />
''Bajirao Mastani'' received 5 nominations at the [[10th Asian Film Awards]], including [[Asian Film Award for Best Film|Best Film]], and won Best Special Effects.<ref>{{cite web |title=10th Asian Film Awards Nominees and Winners |url=http://www.asianfilmawards.asia/nominees-and-winners/10th-afa-nominees/ |publisher=[[Asian Film Awards]] |access-date=22 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522173334/http://www.asianfilmawards.asia/nominees-and-winners/10th-afa-nominees/ |archive-date=22 May 2016}}</ref> At the [[63rd National Film Awards]], ''Bajirao Mastani'' received 7 awards, including [[National Film Award for Best Direction|Best Director]] (Bhansali), [[National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress|Best Supporting Actress]] (Azmi), [[National Film Award for Best Cinematography|Best Cinematography]] (Chatterjee), and [[National Film Award for Best Art Direction|Best Art Direction]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Winners of 63rd National Film Awards 2015 |url=http://dff.nic.in/writereaddata/Winners_of_63rd_NFA_2015.pdf |publisher=[[Directorate of Film Festivals]] |access-date=28 March 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161007194418/http://dff.nic.in/writereaddata/Winners_of_63rd_NFA_2015.pdf |archive-date=7 October 2016}}</ref> The film received a leading 14 nominations at the [[61st Filmfare Awards]] and went on to win a leading 9 awards at the ceremony,<ref>{{cite news |title='Bajirao Mastani' Dominates Filmfare Awards |url=https://variety.com/2016/film/asia/bajirao-mastani-dominates-filmfare-awards-1201682086/ |last=Frater |first=Patrick |work=Variety|url-status=live |date=18 January 2016 |access-date=22 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160504151921/http://variety.com/2016/film/asia/bajirao-mastani-dominates-filmfare-awards-1201682086/ |archive-date=4 May 2016}}</ref> including [[Filmfare Award for Best Film|Best Film]], [[Filmfare Award for Best Director|Best Director]] (Bhansali), [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] (Singh), and [[Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress|Best Supporting Actress]] (Chopra).<ref>{{cite news |title=Nominations for the 61st Britannia Filmfare Awards |url=http://www.filmfare.com/news/nominations-for-the-61st-britannia-filmfare-awards-11809.html |work=Filmfare |date=11 January 2016 |access-date=22 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160315031252/http://www.filmfare.com/news/nominations-for-the-61st-britannia-filmfare-awards-11809.html |archive-date=15 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Full list of winners of the 61st Britannia Filmfare Awards |url=http://www.filmfare.com/news/full-list-of-winners-of-the-61st-britannia-filmfare-awards-11841.html |work=Filmfare |date=15 January 2016 |access-date=22 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160316165017/http://www.filmfare.com/news/full-list-of-winners-of-the-61st-britannia-filmfare-awards-11841.html |archive-date=16 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite episode |title=61st Filmfare Awards |series=Filmfare Awards |network=[[Sony Entertainment Television]] |date=7 February 2016}}</ref> It received 13 nominations at the 22nd [[Screen Awards]], including [[Screen Award for Best Film|Best Film]], and [[Screen Award for Best Director|Best Director]] (Bhansali), and won 7 including [[Screen Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] (Singh), and [[Screen Award for Best Supporting Actress|Best Supporting Actress]] (Chopra).<ref>{{cite episode |title=22nd Annual Star Screen Awards |series=Screen Awards |network=[[STAR Plus]] |date=31 January 2016}}</ref> The film also won a leading 13 awards from a leading 18 nominations at the [[17th IIFA Awards]] including [[IIFA Award for Best Director|Best Director]] (Bhansali), [[IIFA Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] (Singh), and [[IIFA Award for Best Supporting Actress|Best Supporting Actress]] (Chopra).<ref>{{cite web |title=Nominations 2016 – IIFA |url=http://www.iifa.com/nominations-2016/ |publisher=[[International Indian Film Academy Awards]] |access-date=27 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160527170146/http://www.iifa.com/nominations-2016/ |archive-date=27 May 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=IIFA Awards 2016: The Complete List of Winners |url=http://www.news18.com/news/movies/iifa-awards-2016-the-complete-list-of-winners-1262131.html |website=News18 |date=26 June 2016 |access-date=27 June 2016|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170510103044/http://www.news18.com/news/movies/iifa-awards-2016-the-complete-list-of-winners-1262131.html |archive-date=10 May 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Check out which movie won big at IIFA 2016 Technical awards |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-check-out-which-movie-won-big-at-iifa-2016-technical-awards-2227758 |work=Daily News and Analysis |date=25 June 2016 |access-date=5 February 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170506211535/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-check-out-which-movie-won-big-at-iifa-2016-technical-awards-2227758 |archive-date=6 May 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
== Historical inaccuracies ==<br />
The film was adapted from the novel ''[[Rau (novel)|Rau]]'', whose accuracy has long been questioned.<ref name="term" /><ref name="dance">{{cite news |title=Priyanka Chopra: How do we know Bajirao didn't dance? |url=http://www.mid-day.com/articles/priyanka-chopra-how-do-we-know-bajirao-didnt-dance/16757165 |last=Jore |first=Dharmendra |work=[[Mid-Day]] |date=10 December 2015 |access-date=25 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161023042849/http://www.mid-day.com/articles/priyanka-chopra-how-do-we-know-bajirao-didnt-dance/16757165 |archive-date=23 October 2016}}</ref> Bhansali consulted historian [[Ninad Bedekar]], who is regarded as an authority on the Peshwas.<ref name="little" /> According to an article published by ''[[Quartz (publication)|Quartz]]'', the "love story" of Bajirao and Mastani is "almost entirely fictional", writing that even the most reliable sources do not give details about the nature of their relationship.<ref name="little" /> There has been controversy over Mastani's true lineage; two accounts of Mastani exist {{ndash}} one which says she was a courtesan and Bajirao's mistress or concubine, and another that is depicted in the film.<ref name="dyk">{{cite news |title=Do You Know Bajirao's Mastani Well? We Did Some Digging For You |url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/who-is-mastani-in-bajirao-mastani-well-history-has-two-versions |last=Rattanpal |first=Divyani |work=The Quint |date=20 December 2015 |access-date=24 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171024221323/https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/who-is-mastani-in-bajirao-mastani-well-history-has-two-versions |archive-date=24 October 2017}}</ref><br />
<br />
According to historian Saili Palande-Datar, very little is known about the women of that era due to the [[orthodoxy]]; women were not given many privileges and rights, and most of the sources from that period are accounts of political battles, revenues and socio-economic records.<ref name="little" /> Palande-Datar also said that there is no evidence of the way Bajirao and Mastani's political marriage became part of folklore and was later transformed into a symbolic representation of great romance.<ref name="little" /> Historian [[Prachi Deshpande]] notes in her book ''Creative Pasts: Historical Memory and Identity in Western India, 1700–1960'', that the public fascination started after their romanticisation began in the 1890s, more than 150 years after they had died, after Marathi playwrights began writing a series of nationalistic plays based on the historical figures. The first such play that portrayed them as a [[Star-crossed|star crossed]] couple was ''Bajirao-Mastani'' (1892) by N B Kanitkar.<ref name="little" /> ''Quartz'' also said the play portrayed them as star crossed lovers and others playwrights followed Kantikar, making it as familiar to Marathi audiences as that of other epic romances.<ref name="little" /> By the 1930s, a number of historical novels that also added to the "myth-making" were written, fascinating another generation.<ref name="little" /> The film gives a more of a personal account of Bajirao's life, which is hard to prove since it has not been covered much by the historians.<ref name="dance" /> Bhansali has said it was his interpretation of how Bajirao was in his home and in personal life, and there was no way to know that.<ref name="dance" /><br />
<br />
Because of this lack of information, Bhansali took liberties with historical facts and exaggerated a few things for cinematic effects.<ref name="little" /><ref name="dance" /> A disclaimer on the film's credits stated it does not claim to be historically accurate.<ref name="hitjob">{{cite news |title=Bajirao Mastani a hit-job on the great Maratha |url=https://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/parthian-shot/bajirao-mastani-a-hit-job-on-the-great-maratha/ |last=Sharma |first=Manimugdha S. |work=The Times of India |date=25 December 2015 |access-date=25 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171026112517/https://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/parthian-shot/bajirao-mastani-a-hit-job-on-the-great-maratha/ |archive-date=26 October 2017}}</ref> The dance sequences have been widely seen as "fictional" and "out of place" in historical context.<ref name="realkashibai">{{cite news |title=11 Things You Need To Know About The Real Kashibai |url=https://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/11-things-that-made-kashibai-an-intriguing-character-in-bajirao-s-life-249116.html |work=The Times of India |date=5 January 2016 |access-date=24 October 2017|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170207020613/http://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/11-things-that-made-kashibai-an-intriguing-character-in-bajirao-s-life-249116.html/ |archive-date=7 February 2017}}</ref> Bajirao's dance sequence in "Malhari" has been criticized, saying a chief minister such as Bajirao would never dance in public.<ref name="manuscripts">{{cite news |url=http://www.afternoondc.in/city-news/rare-manuscripts-of-peshwa-history-lie-wrapped-in-government-apathy/article_155888 |title=Rare manuscripts of Peshwa history lie wrapped in government apathy |work=[[The Afternoon Despatch & Courier]] |date=15 December 2015 |access-date=4 January 2016 |last=Hamine |first=Prashant | url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114075937/http://www.afternoondc.in/city-news/rare-manuscripts-of-peshwa-history-lie-wrapped-in-government-apathy/article_155888 |archive-date=14 January 2016 }}</ref> Similarly, the "Pinga" dance sequence between Kashibai and Mastani has been deemed "inappropriate" for women of that era.<ref name="upset" /><br />
<br />
Some historians have said that apart from the inappropriateness of a woman of Kashibai's stature dancing in public, she suffered from a type of [[arthritis]] and that dancing was not physically possible for her.<ref name="manuscripts" /> While some historians have claimed both women met socially only once; others have said they never met at all.<ref name="manuscripts" /> Mastani was put under [[house arrest]] by Balaji while Bajirao was on military campaign, as opposed to film's depiction of Mastani's imprisonment. The film shows Bajirao and Mastani dying at the same time in different places, which did not happen in reality.<ref name="dyk" /> Bajirao died a few days earlier than Mastani; however the cause of her death is not known. Some have claimed she died from shock; other accounts say she committed suicide. The film portrays Mastani being chained at the time of her death but she was never chained and she and Kashibai were both present at Bajirao's last rites.<ref name="dyk" /><ref name="realkashibai" /> After the death of Mastani, Kashibai raised Mastani's son as her own, which is not shown in the film.<ref name="realkashibai" /> Other inaccuracies include Mastani playing a [[mandola]], an instrument that originated in Europe during the 19th century.<ref name="hitjob" /><br />
<br />
==See also==<br />
{{Portal|Bollywood}}<br />
* [[List of Asian historical drama films]]<br />
*[[List of highest-grossing Indian films]]<br />
<br />
== References ==<br />
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}<br />
<br />
== External links ==<br />
* {{IMDb title}}<br />
* {{Bollywood Hungama movie|bajirao-mastani<!-- id# 526719 -->}}<br />
* {{Rotten Tomatoes}}<br />
* {{Mojo movie}}<br />
<br />
{{Sanjay Leela Bhansali}}<br />
{{Filmfare Award for Best Film}}<br />
{{good article}}<br />
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