Why 'Shuddh Desi Romance' was shifted to Sep 6

Ritesh Deshmukh has rubbished rumours that Yash Raj Films advanced the release date of "Shuddh Desi Romance" to avoid a clash with "Grand Masti", which is schedule for a Sep 13 release.

He said that "Shuddh Desi Romance" is supposed to premiere at a film festival and that is why the release date has been shifted to Sep 6 from Sep 13.

"What I know is that 'Shuddh Desi Romance' is supposed to be premiered at some film festival and that is the reason they (the makers of the film) have shifted the date. This is what I have read and want to believe this," the 34-year-old said Monday at a radio station where he was promoting "Grand Masti".

"Every film has its own strength and Yash Raj has never let go of its dates. But they did so this time because of the festival," he added.

Riteish's "Grand Masti" co-stars Aftab Shivdasani and Vivek Oberoi were also present with him.

"Shuddh Desi Romance" stars Sushant Singh Rajput, Parineeti Chopra and newcomer Vaani Kapoor.

Talking about the box office business when two films release together, Riteish gave the example of "Chennai Express" and "Once Upon Ay Time In Mumbai Dobaara".

"If 'Chennai Express' and 'Once Upon Ay Time In Mumbai Dobaara" had released on the same date, then the record-breaking collection that 'Chennai Express' has done would have been doubtful," Riteish said.

"But it's great that both films decided to release on different dates as this will help the films and the audience," he added.

Initially, "Once Upon Ay Time in Mumbaai Dobaara!" and "Chennai Express" were supposed to have an Eid release, but the producers of both the films decided to shift dates.

"Chennai Express" released on Aug 9 and became the fastest film to cross the Rs.100 crore mark.