Riteish Deshmukh is set to make his Telugu cinema debut with RAPO23, starring Energetic Star Ram Pothineni, as filming continues in Hyderabad. The makers have officially announced Riteish’s association with the much-anticipated project, which also marks Ram Pothineni’s directorial debut.
A behind-the-scenes video released by the film’s team offers a glimpse of Riteish arriving on set and being warmly welcomed by Ram Pothineni with a hug. The video has added to the excitement surrounding the upcoming Telugu film, although Riteish’s face is kept out of view in the footage.
Riteish Deshmukh Joins Ram Pothineni’s RAPO23
Riteish Deshmukh, known for his work in Hindi cinema, is entering the Telugu film industry with RAPO23. The actor has appeared in films such as Ek Villain, Raid 2 and Raja Shivaji.
According to the film’s team, Riteish was impressed by the script and his character before agreeing to join the project. His role is expected to be pivotal to the film’s narrative, adding another significant name to the cast.
The announcement also marks an important career milestone for Riteish as he expands his work into Telugu cinema.
Ram Pothineni Makes His Directorial Debut With RAPO23
RAPO23 brings Ram Pothineni into a new creative role, with the actor taking on the dual responsibility of starring in and directing the film.
The project is being produced by Krishna Pothineni under the Rapo Cinematics banner. Mounted on a large scale, the film is set in a neo-noir world, suggesting a distinctive visual and narrative approach.
With Ram leading the project both in front of and behind the camera, RAPO23 represents a new chapter in his career.
RAPO23 Hyderabad Schedule and Behind-the-Scenes Video
The film is currently being shot in Hyderabad. The newly released behind-the-scenes video captures Riteish Deshmukh’s arrival on set and his interaction with Ram Pothineni.
Although the footage does not reveal Riteish’s face, it confirms his presence during the ongoing filming schedule. The friendly greeting between the two actors provides a brief glimpse into their collaboration on the project.
The makers have positioned the announcement as a key update for fans following the film’s development.
Samyuktha Plays the Female Lead in RAPO23
Actress Samyuktha has been cast as the female lead in RAPO23, alongside Ram Pothineni and Riteish Deshmukh. Other actors are also part of the film in important roles.
The technical team includes cinematographer Thirunavukarasu, popularly known as Tirru, production designer AS Prakash and music composer Sam CS.
The film’s action sequences are being designed by Peter Hein, Vikram Mor and Kevin, bringing an experienced team together for its large-scale production.
RAPO23: Cast, Director and Technical Crew
Here are the key details announced about the upcoming film:
- Film title: RAPO23
- Lead actor: Ram Pothineni
- Director: Ram Pothineni
- New cast member: Riteish Deshmukh
- Female lead: Samyuktha
- Producer: Krishna Pothineni
- Production banner: Rapo Cinematics
- Cinematographer: Thirunavukarasu (Tirru)
- Production designer: AS Prakash
- Music composer: Sam CS
- Action directors: Peter Hein, Vikram Mor and Kevin
- Current shooting location: Hyderabad
- Film genre setting: Neo-noir
Why RAPO23 Is Generating Interest
RAPO23 brings together several notable developments: Riteish Deshmukh’s entry into Telugu cinema, Ram Pothineni’s first directorial venture and a neo-noir concept backed by an experienced technical team.
Riteish’s addition introduces a prominent Hindi film actor to the Telugu project, while Ram’s decision to direct the film adds another dimension to his role.
With the Hyderabad schedule underway and more cast members involved, the film is emerging as a project to watch among upcoming Telugu cinema releases.
Conclusion
Riteish Deshmukh’s Telugu debut with RAPO23 marks a new milestone in his film career, while the project gives Ram Pothineni an opportunity to explore filmmaking as a director.
Produced by Krishna Pothineni under Rapo Cinematics, the neo-noir film features Samyuktha as the female lead and a technical team covering cinematography, music, production design and action.
As shooting continues in Hyderabad, audiences can look forward to further announcements about RAPO23, including additional details about its cast, story and release plans.
Welcoming the ever-versatile @Riteishd on board for a very EXCITING ROLE ❤️🔥
#RAPO23 New Schedule Begins 💥
— https://t.co/ZbWI1YzeEy
#HappyDussehra
Written & Directed by #𝙍𝘼𝙋𝙊
Produced by Krishna Pothineni
A @RAPO_Cinematics Production.
Energetic Star @ramsayz 🐺🖤
@iamsamyuktha_ @SamCSmusic @DOP_Tirru #ASPrakash #KevinKumar @PeterHeinOffl
— RAPO Cinematics (@RAPO_Cinematics) October 19, 2026
