June 14, 2025 — Today marks five years since the tragic passing of Sushant Singh Rajput, a name that continues to evoke admiration, emotion, and a lingering sense of loss. More than just a Bollywood star, Sushant was a thinker, a dreamer, and a soul far ahead of his time. Whether he was sharing his thoughts on quantum physics or delving into poetry and philosophy, his inquisitive mind made him stand out in an industry often consumed by glamour. But it was on-screen that he truly immortalized himself — through characters that were deeply human, layered, and unforgettable.
Here’s a look at five performances that remind us why Sushant Singh Rajput was one of the most gifted actors of his generation:
Kai Po Che! (2013) – The Innocent Dreamer
Sushant’s big-screen debut was nothing short of remarkable. In Kai Po Che!, he portrayed Ishaan Bhatt — a passionate cricketer whose ambition is matched only by his love for his friends and students. The film not only showcased Sushant’s natural charm and screen presence but also his ability to dive deep into emotionally driven roles. His portrayal of Ishaan was earnest, impulsive, and heartbreakingly real, setting the tone for the kind of nuanced roles he would continue to choose.
Detective Byomkesh Bakshy! (2015) – The Sharp Sleuth
In this gritty period mystery directed by Dibakar Banerjee, Sushant stepped into the shoes of one of India’s most iconic fictional detectives. His interpretation of Byomkesh was restrained yet electric, with intelligence simmering beneath every expression. He brought a contemporary edge to a vintage character, proving that he could transcend genres and deliver even in the most stylized settings.
M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016) – The Biopic Benchmark
Arguably his most celebrated performance, Sushant’s portrayal of Mahendra Singh Dhoni was nothing short of transformative. He trained rigorously to mirror Dhoni’s stance, mannerisms, and playing style, but it was his emotional depth that made the role iconic. The film was more than just a sports biopic; it was an ode to resilience, and Sushant’s performance resonated with millions who saw in it the story of struggle, success, and sincerity.
Kedarnath (2018) – The Silent Saviour
Set against the backdrop of the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, Kedarnath saw Sushant play Mansoor Khan, a Muslim porter who falls in love with a Hindu girl. His character was understated, his emotions subtle, and his performance heartbreakingly sincere. Amidst a love story and a natural calamity, Sushant’s calm and grounded portrayal provided the film with its emotional anchor.
Chhichhore (2019) – The Ultimate Underdog Cheerleader
In what would become one of his final releases, Sushant played Anirudh Pathak, a father reflecting on his college days to teach his son the value of failure. The film was light-hearted and nostalgic, but it also carried a powerful message about mental health and self-worth — themes that became hauntingly relevant in the wake of Sushant’s own death. His performance was warm, funny, and impactful, cementing his ability to inspire through storytelling.
A Star That Still Shines
Sushant Singh Rajput was not just an actor — he was a student of life. He pursued astrophysics, danced like a dream, read voraciously, and even owned a telescope to observe the rings of Saturn. He reminded us that it’s possible to be an artist and a scientist, a lover of stars and a star himself.
Even five years after his untimely passing, his legacy endures — in his films, in the dreams he chased, and in the countless lives he inspired. As fans across the world remember him today, one thing is clear: Sushant Singh Rajput may have left the earthly stage, but his presence remains eternal in the cosmos he so dearly loved.
Forever in our hearts, SSR.
