Subhash Ghai Announces Return With New Film, Teases Riteish Deshmukh as ‘Heroine’

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai has officially ended his sabbatical and is back in the spotlight with the announcement of a new film. What caught everyone by surprise, however, was his unique way of introducing the lead actor—Riteish Deshmukh—as the “heroine” of his upcoming project.

On Monday, Ghai took to Instagram to share a cheeky post featuring a throwback photo of Deshmukh dressed as a woman from his 2006 comedy hit ‘Apna Sapna Money Money’. The caption read, “She is our next heroine in our forthcoming film under Mukta Arts. A classic beauty. Can you guess the name of this beautiful girl? Please do write (sic).”

The playful announcement quickly went viral, with fans and celebrities joining the fun. Actress Mahima Chaudhry humorously commented, “That’s Desh Mukh. What about Pardes Mukh?” Meanwhile, users flooded the comment section with quips like “She’s Riteshi. So cute. Picture definitely super hit hogi sir,” and “Wow, Riteish Deshmukh in heroine role. Dekhna shandar hoga (It’ll be great to watch).”

While many fans recognised the photo as being from Deshmukh’s iconic cross-dressing performance in Apna Sapna Money Money, Ghai’s post left people wondering whether the casting was a joke or a genuine casting reveal. The filmmaker has not confirmed whether Deshmukh will indeed play a female character in the film or if the post was simply a humorous nod to the actor’s previous role.

The announcement also marks Ghai’s return to filmmaking after a two-year hiatus. His last project, ‘36 Farmhouse’ (2022), was a film he wrote and produced, though he had taken a step back from direction in recent years. In a candid conversation with trade analyst Komal Nahta, Ghai had explained his decision to pause filmmaking. “I don’t see love among people anymore. I see everyone just working, poor things,” he said, reflecting on the changing dynamics in film production.

Ghai also shared a moment of frustration with a screenwriter who had over-scheduled the delivery of a story. “He gave me all the dates and instalments like a bakery—‘Your story will be ready in many days.’ I said, ‘Are you making rotis or what?’” he recalled humorously.

While there is still some mystery around whether Deshmukh is actually playing the female lead, the buzz surrounding Subhash Ghai’s comeback has certainly reignited interest in his filmmaking legacy. Whether comedy or satire, fans now eagerly await more details on this quirky new project from one of Bollywood’s most iconic directors.

IT.