Salman Khan Told Riteish Deshmukh He 'Can't Make' Raja Shivaji Without Him: Have To Be In This, Whatever It Takes - EXCLUSIVE

Salman

Khan’s cameo in Raja Shivaji has been widely discussed on social media. In Riteish Deshmukh’s ambitious project, his "bhau" appears in a special role as Jiva Mahale, one of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s most trusted and loyal soldiers. The climax scene, featuring Salman in a never-seen-before avatar, sent his fans into a frenzy. But did you know? He was not initially going to be part of the historical drama. In fact, it was he who insisted that Riteish give him a role. Deshmukh, who has acted in and directed the film, revealed what the superstar told him.

Riteish Deshmukh On Raja Shivaji Cameos

In an exclusive chat with Zoom, Riteish spoke about the cameos in his latest project and said that there is a lot of goodness in the industry. He added that there is immense goodwill among people, who often go out of their way to support each other. He further said that many times people ask each other to make reels or do dance steps, and they willingly participate for one another. However, in Raja Shivaji's case, the commitment was much greater because the film required more than a few hours of their time. It demanded involvement, participation in a larger historical narrative, and a deeper sense of responsibility. He noted that these were not just about fleeting appearances; actors required a certain drive, motivation, and a specific screen presence."Even if it is Salman Bhau who comes in the climax, he is playing a character - it’s not just Salman Khan. He is a historical figure,Jiva Mahale, who played an important part at that point in time," said Riteish.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZV3kKckOkI

Salman Khan Told Riteish Deshmukh He Cannot Make Raja Shivaji Without Him

The actor-director further revealed that they were having a conversation on New Year’s Eve, when Salman asked when the film would begin. Riteish replied that shooting would start the following month. Bhaijaan immediately asked, "What am I playing in it?" Riteish had no immediate answer. Salman added, "You can’t make a film without me. I was there in your last film, I was there in your first film - now I have to be in this one too, whatever it takes."Riteish said that he was deeply grateful for "elder brother" Salman's affection. It then took him about a month to decide the role, as he wanted to use the superstar's presence in a way that would add value and appeal to the audience.Historically, Jiva Mahale is known as the warrior who saved Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life at a critical moment, and Riteish had always envisioned this sequence as part of the climax. But when he considered Salman for the part, he felt it could only work effectively if executed properly. He shared that he wanted it to be a surprise moment for the audience.Riteish discussed the idea with Salman while they were working on another film, and the latter immediately agreed.Raja Shivaji, also starring Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Genelia Deshmukh and others, is currently running in theatres.