Today marks the emotional birth anniversary of the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, a day that brings back poignant memories for his colleagues and admirers. In a touching throwback, veteran actor Manoj Bajpayee has opened up about their profound connection, offering moving insights into the brilliant mind behind the movie star.
Manoj Bajpayee's Heartfelt Reflections on Their Bond
Recalling their time together on the sets of the critically acclaimed film 'Sonchiriya', Manoj Bajpayee revealed the depth of their relationship in a recent interview. He shared how he once advised the young star to develop a "thick skin" to navigate the often ruthless politics of the Bollywood industry. This advice came from a place of genuine concern and mentorship, as Bajpayee saw immense potential in Sushant.
From Quantum Physics to Shared Meals: A Glimpse into Sushant's World
Bajpayee's reflections paint a vivid picture of Sushant Singh Rajput as a multifaceted individual. Their conversations extended far beyond cinema, delving into topics like quantum physics and spiritualism. "He had great knowledge about quantum physics. He used to talk to me about spiritualism and compare it with quantum physics. He was a fantastic mind," Bajpayee recalled. This intellectual curiosity was matched by his habit of being a voracious reader, often seen with books both on and off the set.
Defending Sushant's Legacy Against Misconceptions
In an interaction with Mid-Day, Manoj Bajpayee firmly rejected narratives that portrayed Sushant as unstable. "Nobody knows what happened to him. All of us are only presuming and guessing things. I have worked with him, and I can say he wasn't a mad guy," he stated emphatically. He described Sushant as someone with a sharp intellect and wide-ranging interests, emphasizing that his death remains a mystery, with even the CBI yet to reach a conclusion.
Lessons from Rejection: Bajpayee's Own Journey
Having faced relentless rejection early in his career, including multiple dismissals from the National School of Drama, Manoj Bajpayee understood the harsh realities of chasing cinematic dreams. These experiences shaped his resilience, a lesson he genuinely wanted Sushant to internalize. "A lot of my friends didn't have that thick skin. They couldn't face rejections like I did," he shared, highlighting the importance of emotional fortitude in the unpredictable world of films.
Fond Memories from 'Sonchiriya' and Beyond
While acknowledging that Sushant could be moody at times, Bajpayee noted that such phases were common among the cast of 'Sonchiriya', including co-stars like Ashutosh Rana and Ranvir Shorey. One of his cherished memories involves Sushant calling him just before the pandemic, saying, "Manoj bhai, I really crave the mutton you cook, so next time when you make it, please invite me over." This personal anecdote underscores the warmth of their bond.
The Emotional Impact of Sushant's Tragic Death
Sushant Singh Rajput's untimely death in June 2020 left a deep void in Manoj Bajpayee's life. "His death news hit me so badly that I was sad for three months as if I have known him so personally and closely," he shared, reflecting on the profound emotional impact. This loss continues to resonate, reminding many of the promise Sushant held.
Sushant Singh Rajput's Cinematic Journey
The late actor first gained fame with the television series 'Pavitra Rishta' before successfully transitioning to Bollywood with films like 'Kai Po Che' and 'Shuddh Desi Romance'. His career peaked with the massive success of 'MS Dhoni: The Untold Story', followed by notable performances in 'Kedarnath', 'Sonchiriya', and 'Chhichhore'. His final release, 'Dil Bechara', posthumously in 2020, stands as a poignant tribute to his talent and the brilliance he brought to the screen.
Manoj Bajpayee's revelations on this birth anniversary serve as a powerful reminder of Sushant Singh Rajput's legacy—not just as an actor, but as a curious, intellectual soul who left an indelible mark on those who knew him. As the industry reflects on his life, these insights offer a deeper understanding of the man behind the star, celebrated for his mind as much as his movies.
