Salman Khan to Debut in Marathi Film with Riteish Deshmukh

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is all set to enter the Marathi film industry. For the first time in a career spanning over two decades, Salman will work in the regional film industry.

The 47-year-old actor will be working with actor Riteish Deshmukh, who recently made his debut as producer with Marathi film "Balak Palak". The film also marks Deshmukh's entry into the Marathi film industry as a hero.

The film titled "Lai Bhaari" will be directed by National Award-winning director Nishikant Kamat. The film is slated to release by the end of this year.

Salman will be seen in a special appearance for which he has already started shooting in Hyderabad. The actor is presently shooting for his film "Mental" in Hyderabad.

"Salman was gracious enough to show his interest in the project. He has already shot three days with us in Hyderabad. Let's term it as a special appearance," Kamat told The Times of India.

The director did not reveal any details about Salman's role in the film. However, sources told the newspaper that he would be playing the role of a typical Maharasthrian. "Since the actor came on board at a very short notice, the tailors had to work overtime to put his look together before the star landed on the sets," TOI quoted source as saying.

Salman's entry in Marathi films industry will definitely give a boost to the regional industry in India. "Quality of content is the key. Social networking sites have helped a lot in creating a buzz around Marathi films. However, even I am surprised at the sudden surge of interest for regional films which have got cash boxes ringing at the boxoffice," Kamat added.