Another Pakistani actor joins Bollywood

A handful of actors from Pakistan " Fawad Khan, Ali Zafar, Veena Malik, Meera and Humaima Malick " have already made their mark in Bollywood. After news broke that Mahira Khan will be seen opposite Shah Rukh Kahn in Raees, it's now heard that Shahroz Sabzwari is the latest to join the Bolly bandwagon. Riingo, who'll debut in B-Town with Luv's Story, is set to direct the popular actor-model from across the border.

The film also stars Riya Sen, Zarina Wahab, Aryann, Bidita Bag, Locket Chatterjee and Mukesh Tiwari, among others. "I always wanted to direct a Hindi film and feel that the time is ripe. Soumik Das and I are working on this project," said Riingo. The film is a redemption story of three friends " Luv, Madan Chetri aka MC and Kushali. The film is about these three best friends who grow up in an orphanage in Kalimpong. Luv (Shahroz) is low on IQ, while MC (Aryann) is a smart guy who knows money can get him recognition and doesn't mind taking the wrong path. Kushali (Bidita), on the other hand, has complete control over both Luv and MC. The latter has a soft corner for Kushali but is well-aware of her feelings for Luv. Kushali uses MC's emotions to get Luv a job. Meanwhile, Zarina's character adopts Luv after her son's death. Riya plays a wannabe Kareena Kapoor living in the hills. After a murder takes place, Luv becomes the prime suspect and the film takes a turn thereafter. About Shahroz, the director said from Kalimpong, where he is busy doing the recce, "He is a huge craze in Pakistan, but came on board after auditions." Music is scored by Shibasish Banerjee and the soundtrack will feature names like Sonu Nigam, Rahul Ram and Mantasha Das.

Shahroz, whose launchpad in films was Khulay Aasman Ke Neechay, directed by his uncle Javed Sheikh, has to his credit several serials and commercials. "I grew up on Hindi cinema, especially Amitji's (Amitabh Bachchan) films. It was always my dream to join Bollywood and I hope India welcomes me with open arms. I had been to Mumbai twice before and this is going to be my third visit. It took me a second to give my nod after hearing the script. There are many shades to Luv's character. I was really nervous about sending my audition tape to the director. I also told him how I love Satyajit Ray's films," said Shahroz from Pakistan.

Shooting will begin on January 28 in north Bengal.