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Entertainment
Riteish Deshmukh Starts Shooting for Telugu Action Thriller RAPO23, Debuts as Villain
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 20 Oct 2026, 03:33 AM
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Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh has commenced filming for the upcoming Telugu film RAPO23, marking his first appearance as a villain in the industry.
Riteish Deshmukh, a well‑known face in Hindi cinema, began principal photography for the Telugu‑language action thriller RAPO23 this week. The production, announced earlier this year, is being shot in locations across Andhra Pradesh, though specific details about the director and co‑stars have not been disclosed publicly.
The film represents Deshmukh’s first foray into Telugu cinema and, notably, his debut as a menacing antagonist rather than the comedic or romantic leads he is famed for. Industry observers note that such a role shift could broaden his appeal in South Indian markets, where villainous characters often receive strong audience attention.
While the storyline of RAPO23 remains under wraps, the actor’s involvement has already generated buzz on social media. Fans and critics alike are watching to see how Deshmukh adapts to the linguistic and stylistic demands of a Telugu production, a move that may signal a new phase in his versatile career.
The film represents Deshmukh’s first foray into Telugu cinema and, notably, his debut as a menacing antagonist rather than the comedic or romantic leads he is famed for. Industry observers note that such a role shift could broaden his appeal in South Indian markets, where villainous characters often receive strong audience attention.
While the storyline of RAPO23 remains under wraps, the actor’s involvement has already generated buzz on social media. Fans and critics alike are watching to see how Deshmukh adapts to the linguistic and stylistic demands of a Telugu production, a move that may signal a new phase in his versatile career.