Skip to main content

Sushant Singh Rajput was an Indian actor known for his work in film and television. He left a significant impact on Bollywood cinema. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 34.

Many fans are mourning his death. Others are learning about him just now because of current headlines. Here’s a look back at his life and most famous roles.

Sushant Singh Rajput | SUJIT JAISWAL/AFP via Getty Images

The career of Sushant Singh Rajput

According to an essay of his published in the Hindustan Times, Rajput came from a family of doctors and lawyers. He credits the Bollywood classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge for helping him decide his direction in life. “I was a huge fan of Shah Rukh Khan. I remember watching Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) and thinking now here’s a cool dude. He is a great performer, but that’s not what impacted me most: Shah Rukh helped me sort out my confusion about who I should be.”

Rajput began his career as a television actor on the show Kis Desh Mein Hai Mera Dil. He would later win several awards for his role as Manav Deshmukh on the soap opera Pavitra Rishta. Rajput made his film debut in 2013’s Kai Po Che!. 

Sushant Singh Rajput | Pratham Gokhale/Hindustan Times via Getty Images

Kai Po Che! received critical acclaim, with many people feeling it was a moving tearjerker. The 2016 film M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story was another huge hit for Rajput. Alongside having a successful film career, he tried to give younger people some tidbits of wisdom they could internalize.

In an essay, Rajput gave young actors some advice, asking them to focus on their personal journeys. “Don’t concentrate on ‘how to get there’, instead enjoy the getting there. Realize where you are today and enjoy that. I don’t believe in cause and effect. I think whatever happens, happens first and then we manufacture the cause to justify it.”

The tragic passing of Sushant Singh Rajput and the reactions to it

Sadly, Rajput committed suicide on June 14, 2020. He was 34. Rajput’s death is currently being investigated by the authorities in Mumbai, India. According to The Times of India, no one has discovered a suicide note. Numerous Bollywood personalities have posted their reactions to his death on social media, often expressing shock at the manner of his death and condolences for his loved ones.

Sushant Singh Rajput | Aalok Soni/Hindustan Times via Getty Images

According to the Los Angeles Times, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his condolences for Rajput. “Sushant Singh Rajput … a bright young actor gone too soon. He excelled on TV and in films. His rise in the world of entertainment inspired many and he leaves behind several memorable performances. Shocked by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and fans.”

Rajput’s untimely death has increased interest in his films. Some Westerners who aren’t familiar with Bollywood are now learning about his work for the first time. Rajut’s filmography will continue to entertain people for generations to come.

How to get help: In the U.S., call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Or text HOME to 741-741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor at the free Crisis Text Line.

Also see: Irrfan Khan of ‘Life of Pi,’ ‘Jurassic World’ Dies – What Was His Net Worth?