MUMBAI: In what seems to be an unbelievable casting coup of sorts, Marathi filmmaker Nishikant Kamat has roped in the mighty Salman Khan for his upcoming Marathi film.

National Award-winning director Nishikant Kamat has not one, but two Bollywood stars in his arsenal, for his new film ‘Lai Bhaari’. The hero of the film will be Riteish Deshmukh, making his debut in the Marathi industry. Moreover, there will be a very special appearance by none other than Salman Khan himself!

Deshmukh, it can be recalled, turned producer this year with a hit Marathi flick ‘Balak Palak’.

Kamat’s ‘Lai Bhaari’ is slated for a December 2013 release. Confirming the developments, Kamat said: “Salman was gracious enough to show his interest in the project. He has already shot three days with us in Hyderabad. Let’s term it as a ‘special appearance.’”

Kamat added that he himself was surprised with the renewed interest in regional cinema. “Social networking sites have helped a lot in creating a buzz around Marathi films. However, even I am surprised at the sudden surge of interest for regional films which have got cash boxes ringing at the box office.”

For this film, Salman Khan will reportedly play the role of a typical Maharashtrian. Tailors and costume designers are hard at work, trying to create his look before he comes into the sets.