Rajniesh Duggall to play Khalid Mohamed in 'Rutba'

New Delhi, July 29 (IANS) Model-turned-actor Rajniesh Duggall will play Khalid Mohammed in 'Rutba', which is being directed by the film critic-turned-director.

Khalid, who took inspiration from his mother's life for scripting Shyam Benegal's critically acclaimed film 'Zubeidaa', has incorporated his real life incidents in the story of 'Rutba'.

'This movie is a fictionalised version of some events inspired by Khalid's life and I would be playing Khalid in it. There will be some changes in my look to suit the character,' Rajniesh told IANS from Mumbai on phone.

'Rutba', which is being produced by Vikram Bhatt, is Khalid's fourth directorial venture after 'Silsiilay' (2005), 'Tehzeeb' (2003) and Fiza (2000).

Rajniesh describes it as an intense movie. 'My character is very serious and the film doesn't have many light moments, but it won't be heavy. It is a very balanced movie,' said the former Mr. India.

'Khalid wanted to take me and when he narrated the story to me, I just loved it. Also, this is one of those opportunities where I would be working with one of the finest directors. Learning is a never ending process and working with Khalid for this movie is another big opportunity for me,' he added.

In 'Rutba', the actor is paired with a newcomer. This would be Rajniesh's third movie with Vikram Bhatt after '1920' and 'Phhirr', which is slated to release in September.

His other projects include a romantic comedy 'Bajaj Lost and Found' where he plays a man who is in search of his parents, but when he finds them he wants to get rid of them. Then there is another light-hearted film called 'Paradise on Earth', which is set in Kashmir and will be shot there.

He will also be seen in an a movie on educational system called 'Dropout'.