5 years without Sushant Singh Rajput: Actor's enduring performances that still speak volumes

Bollywood lost a unique talent on June 14, 2020. Even after all this time has passed, Sushant Singh Rajput's accomplishments and the mysteries surrounding his untimely demise are still fresh in the minds of his many fans, colleagues, and admirers. On his fifth death anniversary, we revisit his series and films (available to stream on OTTPlay Premium) that showcase his versatility, integrity, and lasting impact on the screen.

Pavitra Rishta (2009–2011)

Sushant first gained fame as Manav Deshmukh, an honest mechanic who reimagined the "ideal man" for Indian television before breaking into Bollywood. His breakthrough role in Pavitra Rishta catapulted him to stardom and solidified his reputation as an actor who could command attention with only words. Videos of Manav's authenticity, rapport with Archana, and understated power continue to go viral with viewers. The show was more than simply fiction for many.

PK (2014)

PK included a brief but pivotal performance by Sushant as Sarfaraz Yousuf. Despite the film's humorous tone, his performance as a Pakistani youngster besotted with an Indian girl (Anushka Sharma) added poignancy and heart to the film. His role demonstrated that Sushant could make a lasting impact even in the absence of significant screen time.

Kedarnath (2018)

Kedarnath was directed by Abhishek Kapoor and starred Sushant as Mansoor, a Muslim porter who falls for a Hindu girl (Sara Ali Khan) in the mystical town of Kedarnath. As the fury of nature intensifies, Mansoor transforms into a symbol of selfless love and a protector. The part has both commercial potential and subtle gravity. The film's posthumous importance has grown as admirers have pointed to its depiction of Sushant's kind, grounded, and profoundly emotional personality.

Sonchiriya (2019)

Sonchiriya took a giant leap for Sushant, who ditched his leading man persona to play Lakhna, a morally torn dacoit on the hunt for atonement, in the Chambal valley. While critics were impressed, audiences were underwhelmed. Sushant's portrayal of Lakhna, including his self-control, accent, body language, and inner turmoil, was flawless. It's an unusual role, and even more unusual for actors to play it honestly. Sonchiriya is now considered a masterpiece by many. A real artist, not simply an actor, is on display in this film.

Despite the limited scope of Sushant's filmography, it remains powerful. He broke all the rules, going from television stardom to nuanced cinema. His dancing was ethereal, his reading was philosophical, and he carried himself as if he were from another time, when stories were more important than fame.