Riteish Deshmukh: Playing Shivaji's role will be challenging

Riteish Deshmukh says working hard on making a film on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj that Maratha warrior's followers will be proud of

Riteish Deshmukh; (inset) Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

After making his Marathi film debut with a double role in the 2014 Nishikant Kamat-directed project, 'Lai Bhaari', Riteish Deshmukh is prepping to slip into the character of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in his upcoming biopic on the Maratha king.

Deshmukh, who will also produce the film, tells mid-day, "Marathi films have been driven by good content for a long time. They have thus won many accolades and awards. The team is working hard to make this film one that Shivaji's followers are proud of. There is a certain pride in playing the role of the great Maratha warrior. It is going to be challenging."

Nagraj Manjule's 2016 blockbuster, 'Sairat', says Riteish Deshmukh, paved a new path for Marathi cinema. "Sairat was a commercial blockbuster. It opened doors for many others. It highlighted that a regional film can also do great business. That is only possible if the audience has faith to choose Marathi films."

The 38-year-old will now be seen in 'Bank Chor', also featuring Vivek Oberoi. As part of promotions for the film, they have created spoofs on other releases. "We also take a dig at ourselves. Often, when the joke is on me, I find it funnier."

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