Riteish Deshmukh

Riteish Deshmukh’s association with the Bigg Boss franchise began with his appointment as the host for Bigg Boss Marathi Season 5, taking over from veteran host Mahesh Manjrekar. Premiering on July 28, 2024, the season marked a significant shift for the Marathi-language reality show, which is broadcast on Colors Marathi and streamed on JioCinema. His debut season was characterized by a high-energy "Maze" (Chakravyuh) house theme and lasted for 70 days, concluding on October 6, 2024. Following the immense success and record-breaking television ratings of his first tenure, Deshmukh returned to host Season 6, which premiered on January 11, 2026, featuring a new "Doors and Windows" theme and continued availability on digital platforms like JioHotstar.

As a host, Riteish Deshmukh is affectionately referred to by the moniker "Bhau," and the weekend eviction episodes are titled "Bhaucha Dhakka." His hosting style is defined by a reactive and spontaneous approach, where he often positions himself as a voice for the audience. He has emphasized that his role involves weighing the responsibility of directing contestants without personal bias, focusing on guiding them with corrective measures. A unique feature introduced during his tenure was the "Tanta Ghar" setup in the activity area, where housemates could vent their frustrations against each other in a controlled environment to resolve weekly conflicts.

Deshmukh's journey has not been without its share of debate and significant decisions. During Season 5, he faced public scrutiny and accusations of favoritism toward certain contestants, specifically Nikki Tamboli, with some viewers suggesting she received less reprimand for her actions compared to others. In response to the pressures of modern hosting, Deshmukh has acknowledged the intense scrutiny from social media and highlighted the production's conscious decision to prioritize family values over TRPs. For instance, he revealed that the channel often chooses to omit sensitive or morally questionable footage involving couples in the house to protect their families and children from social repercussions, reflecting a balanced and responsible broadcasting strategy.