Revisiting Sonchiriya, Abhishek Chaubey opens up about choosing Sushant Singh Rajput over star kids and what made him stand out.
Even years after his untimely death, Sushant Singh Rajput continues to live on through his powerful performances. One film that fans often return to is Sonchiriya (2019), a hard-hitting period drama that showcased Sushant in one of his most layered roles. Recently, director Abhishek Chaubey spoke about why Sushant was his first choice for the film and what made him stand apart from many star kids.
Set in the harsh and dusty ravines of Chambal Sonchiriya followed the lives of dacoits struggling with violence, guilt, faith and survival. Sushant played Lakhna Singh, a rebel with a troubled past and a strong inner conflict. His performance was subtle, intense and deeply moving, earning praise from critics and audiences alike.
When the film released, it was appreciated for its realism and strong storytelling but failed to make an impact at the box office. Over time, especially after Sushant’s passing in 2020, Sonchiriya found new viewers and slowly gained cult status. Many now consider it one of the finest films of his career.
In a recent interview with SCREEN Abhishek Chaubey explained why Sushant felt like the right choice for the role. He shared that there was something very “desi” about the actor that made him fit naturally into the world of Sonchiriya. While talking about other actors he mentioned that many “Bandra boys” would need more effort and time to adapt to such a raw setting. For Sushant, the transition felt easier because he came from a small-town background and understood that environment.
The filmmaker also recalled how quickly Sushant agreed to do the film. He said that he met the actor one evening while he was shooting and by the very next day, Sushant came to their office and said yes. His instant decision showed how strongly he connected with the script and the character.
Apart from his dedication to acting, Abhishek also remembered Sushant as a curious and thoughtful person. He shared a memorable incident from the sets where Sushant brought a large professional telescope to the shooting location. After pack-up, he would spend time lying on the lawn, watching planets and stars. Slowly other members of the cast and crew joined him, turning those moments into something special and unforgettable.
Sushant Singh Rajput may no longer be with us but films like Sonchiriya continue to remind audiences of his talent, honesty and passion. His performance proved that true art goes beyond box office numbers and stays alive in the hearts of viewers.