Ritesh Deshmukh And Nargis Fakhri Starrer Was Planned As A Marathi Film?

Around a couple of years back, Riteish Deshmukh had made his Marathi debut with Lai Bhaari. The 'masala' entertainer had set a new record for Marathi films and went on to collect close to 40 crore at the Box Office, a huge number by all means. The collections were further matched by another Marathi film Timepass 2, sequel to immensely successful Timepass, which was directed by Ravi Jadhav.

No wonder, once the duo was brought together by producer Krishika Lulla for her next outing Banjo, there was widespread excitement. After all, to have the number one director of Marathi cinema make a film with one of the most popular actors in Indian cinema, and that too with backing by one of the most successful producers around was one trinity that had in it to make it big.

However, contrary to some speculations that were set at the time of the launch, the film was never planned in Marathi.

"Somehow, the coming together of Riteish and Ravi made one think that this would be a Marathi venture," says a source, "Moreover, since Krishika is going full throttle with Marathi films (her Phuntroo has just released to a good response while the promo of her next flick & Zara Hatke is on as well), it was felt that Banjo would be a Marathi film as well."

Few had doubts around this though, considering the fact that the leading lady was none other than Nargis Fakhri. Since she is making her place in the Hindi films today, a jump into the Marathi cinema seemed a little improbable.

As has turned out though, all of this has been just loose talk as Banjo was always conceptualized as a Hindi film.

"Exactly, we never planned it in Marathi," says Krishika, "Yes, Ravi is directing it because we wanted to give him a chance for his Bollywood debut. He deserves that. He brings with him a good mix of interesting cinema with great commercial appeal. He has a National Award to his name and also Blockbusters behind him. We are glad to have him on board for Banjo. Together, the team with Riteish and Nargis is doing a great job."

We look forward to the results once the film hits the screens this August.