Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh is all set to entertain audiences with his upcoming historical action drama, Raja Shivaji. The actor essays the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the film.
Since the trailer was released on April 20, the internet has been buzzing with reactions, with many calling Riteish a misfit for the role.
Internet disappointed with Riteish Deshmukh’s casting as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
On Monday, a Reddit user shared a still of Riteish from the film and wrote, “He’s such a misfit for the movie.” Many users agreed with the post. One of them commented, “Tbh, even Ram Charan would look good in this movie.” Another wrote, “Unfortunately, it’s true. His voice doesn’t have that power. This will be like Akshay Kumar in the Prithviraj Chauhan movie.” Another commented, “He can’t do justice to the role.”
Another Reddit user commented, “Oh absolutely! He doesn’t have the aura and personality to carry the role of a warrior.” Another wrote, “Riteish’s tone and dialogue delivery don’t create the impact of the strong force that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was. Neither does he look the part, even after the make-up.” Another comment read, “I really want to see Sharad Kelkar in this epic role. Why Riteish!???” Another wrote, “I am waiting for Rishab Shetty sir’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj movie. This is an absolute misfit as well as unnecessary.”
Some users also felt the overall casting was not up to the mark. One commented, “Worst casting of this decade.” Another wrote, “A nepo boat venture with Abhishek, Fardeen and him.” Another added, “This looks like a group project, terrible casting.”
The trailer of the film was unveiled at a grand event in Mumbai on Monday. During the event, Riteish became emotional while recalling the struggle behind bringing the film to life. He also got teary-eyed while expressing gratitude to Abhishek Bachchan and his wife Genelia for standing by him and supporting him throughout the journey.
All about Raja Shivaji
The film is directed by Riteish Deshmukh and produced by Genelia Deshmukh and Jyoti Deshpande. Based on the life of Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire, the film also stars Abhishek Bachchan, Genelia Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi and Amole Gupte in key roles. It also marks the acting debut of Riteish’s 10-year-old son, Rahyl, and features Salman Khan in a cameo appearance. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on May 1.