Basic Details

Riteish Deshmukh is a multifaceted Indian entertainer known for his versatility as an actor, producer, and television presenter. Born on December 17, 1978, in Latur, Maharashtra, he is the son of the late Vilasrao Deshmukh, a former Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Riteish pursued architecture at Kamla Raheja College of Architecture in Mumbai and later honed his acting skills at The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in California. He made his acting debut with the film “Tujhe Meri Kasam” in 2003 and gained popularity through his performances in comedy films like “Masti,” “Kyaa Kool Hai Hum,” and the “Housefull” series. Apart from acting, he has produced Marathi films such as “Balak-Palak” and “Yellow,” the latter earning him a National Film Award. In 2022, he made his directorial debut with the Marathi film “Ved,” which became one of the highest-grossing Marathi films of all time. Riteish is married to actress Genelia D’Souza, and the couple has two sons

Physical Stats and More

Biography

Riteish Deshmukh’s journey in the entertainment industry began with his debut in “Tujhe Meri Kasam” (2003), where he starred opposite Genelia D’Souza. He quickly established himself in the comedy genre with films like “Masti” (2004) and “Kyaa Kool Hai Hum” (2005). His versatility was evident when he took on a negative role in “Ek Villain” (2014), earning critical acclaim. In addition to acting, Riteish ventured into film production with Marathi films like “Balak-Palak” (2013) and “Yellow” (2014), the latter winning a National Film Award. His directorial debut, “Ved” (2022), became a significant success in Marathi cinema.​

Relationships & More

Career

Debut and Rise in Bollywood (2003–2010)

Riteish made his acting debut with Tujhe Meri Kasam (2003), co-starring Genelia D’Souza. He gained prominence with the adult comedy Masti (2004) and showcased his comedic talent in films like Kyaa Kool Hai Hum (2005), Bluffmaster! (2005), Heyy Babyy (2007), and Dhamaal (2007). His role in Housefull (2010) further cemented his status as a reliable comic actor.​

Versatility and Critical Acclaim (2011–2014)

Expanding his repertoire, Riteish took on diverse roles in Double Dhamaal (2011), Housefull 2 (2012), and Grand Masti (2013). His portrayal of a serial killer in Ek Villain (2014) received critical acclaim, highlighting his versatility beyond comedy.

Marathi Cinema and Directorial Debut (2013–2022)

Venturing into Marathi cinema, Riteish produced Balak-Palak (2013) and made his acting debut with Lai Bhaari (2014), one of the highest-grossing Marathi films. In 2022, he directed and starred in Ved, which became the fourth highest-grossing Marathi film of all time. The film’s success showcased his capabilities as a filmmaker.

Recent Projects and Upcoming Ventures (2023–2025)

Riteish continued to explore various genres with films like Kakuda (2024), where he played a ghost hunter, and Visfot (2024), portraying a conflicted pilot. His OTT debut came with the series Pill (2024), where he played a man fighting corruption in the pharmaceutical industry. Upcoming projects include Raid 2, Housefull 5, Masti 4, Dhamaal 4, and the bilingual historical film Raja Shivaji, in which he will direct and portray Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Other Details

Contributions Beyond Work

Riteish Deshmukh is actively involved in philanthropic activities and supports various social causes. He has used his platform to raise awareness on issues like education and women’s safety.​

The Legacy of Riteish Deshmukh

Riteish Deshmukh’s multifaceted career in acting, production, and direction, along with his philanthropic efforts, have made him a respected figure in the Indian entertainment industry. His ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and serious roles, coupled with his contributions to Marathi cinema, underscores his versatility and commitment to storytelling.

Other Facts:

• Education and Personal Life:
  • Riteish completed his schooling at G.D. Somani Memorial School in Mumbai and earned an architecture degree from Kamla Raheja College of Architecture. He further studied acting at The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in California. He married actress Genelia D’Souza in 2012, and the couple has two sons, Riaan and Rahyl.
• Interesting Facts:
  • Before stepping into the film industry, Riteish earned a degree in architecture from Kamla Raheja College of Architecture in Mumbai. He even practiced with an overseas architectural firm and continues to have a passion for design.
    
    
  • Riteish made his Bollywood debut in 2003 with Tujhe Meri Kasam, opposite Genelia D’Souza. The on-screen chemistry blossomed into real-life romance, leading to their marriage in 2012.
    
    
  • He ventured into Marathi cinema as a producer with Balak Palak (2013), a film addressing adolescent sex education. He later made his acting debut in Marathi films with Lai Bhaari (2014) and directed Ved (2022), which became one of the highest-grossing Marathi films.
    
    
  • In 2006, he altered the spelling of his name from ‘Ritesh’ to ‘Riteish’ based on numerological beliefs.
    
    
  • Riteish shares a strong friendship with Shah Rukh Khan. In a light-hearted moment, Shah Rukh once joked about wanting to marry Riteish, highlighting their camaraderie.
    
    
  • Demonstrating his commitment to social causes, Riteish donated ₹25 lakh to his hometown Latur for drought relief in 2016 and another ₹25 lakh for Maharashtra flood relief in 2019. He and Genelia have also pledged to donate their organs.
    
    
  • Riteish received the National Film Award – Special Jury Award for producing the Marathi film Yellow (2014), showcasing his versatility beyond acting.