Riteish Deshmukh
Riteish Deshmukh 
| |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | 17 December 1978 Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | Bachelor of Architecture |
| Alma mater | Kamla Raheja College of Architecture, Mumbai |
| Occupation | Actor, Filmmaker, Producer, Television presenter |
| Years active | 2003–present |
| Known for | Comedy roles in Hindi films; Ved (2022) |
| Spouse | Genelia D'Souza |
| Parents | Vilasrao Deshmukh (father) Vaishali Deshmukh (mother) |
Riteish Deshmukh (born 17 December 1978) is an Indian actor, filmmaker, producer, and television presenter who works primarily in Hindi and Marathi cinema. Widely known for his comic timing, he has also earned critical acclaim for his performances in negative and dramatic roles. He is a recipient of a National Film Award, Filmfare Award Marathi, and multiple IIFA Awards.[1]
Early Life and Education
Riteish Deshmukh was born in Mumbai, Maharashtra, into a Maratha family. He is the son of Vilasrao Deshmukh, former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and Vaishali Deshmukh. He completed his schooling in Mumbai and later pursued architecture, graduating from Kamla Raheja College of Architecture.
Before entering films, Riteish worked briefly with an international architectural firm. He later trained in acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.[2]
Career
Early Career (2003–2007)
Riteish made his acting debut with Tujhe Meri Kasam (2003), earning a Filmfare nomination for Best Male Debut. His breakthrough came with the comedy Masti (2004). He gained popularity through films such as Kyaa Kool Hain Hum, Malamaal Weekly, Heyy Babyy, and the blockbuster Dhamaal (2007).[3]
Commercial Success and Acclaim (2008–2014)
After mixed results in the late 2000s, Riteish achieved renewed success with Housefull (2010). He delivered multiple comedy hits including Double Dhamaal, Housefull 2, Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum, and Grand Masti.
In 2014, he surprised audiences with his negative role in Ek Villain, earning several awards. The same year, his Marathi debut Lai Bhaari became a major box-office success.
Ups and Downs (2015–2021)
This phase saw a mix of commercial outcomes. While films like Bangistan and Bank Chor underperformed, he scored major hits with Housefull 3, Total Dhamaal, and Housefull 4. He also starred in the successful Marathi film Mauli (2018).
New Phase (2022–present)
Riteish made his directorial debut with the Marathi film Ved (2022), which emerged as one of the highest-grossing Marathi films ever and earned him a Filmfare Award Marathi for Best Director. He made his OTT debut with Pill (2024) and received praise for roles in Kakuda and Visfot. In 2025, he appeared in Raid 2, Housefull 5, and Mastiii 4.
Other Work
Television
Riteish has hosted several award shows and television programs, including India’s Dancing Superstar, Yaaron Ki Baraat, and Bigg Boss Marathi 5. He is also a regular on the comedy court show Case Toh Banta Hai.
Producer and Director
He founded the Mumbai Film Company in 2013. His productions include Balak Palak, Yellow (National Award winner), and Faster Fene. His next directorial project is Raja Shivaji, a Marathi–Hindi bilingual film.
Achievements and Recognition
Riteish Deshmukh has won numerous awards for comedy, acting, and filmmaking, including a National Film Award, Filmfare Awards Marathi, IIFA Awards, Zee Cine Awards, and Star Guild Awards. His versatility across comedy, drama, and direction has made him one of the most respected multi-hyphenate artists in Indian cinema.
Personal Life
Riteish is married to actress Genelia D'Souza. The couple has two sons and is known for maintaining a low-profile personal life.