Abhishek Chaubey says Sushant Singh Rajput was ideal for Sonchiriya because of his ‘desi’ vibe

SUSHANT SINGH RAJPUT IN SONCHIRAIYA

• Abhishek Chaubey says Sushant Singh Rajput was ideal for Sonchiriya's lead role
• Sonchiriya gained cult status and is seen as a highlight of Sushant's career
• Sushant's small-town background made him fit the film's gritty Chambal setting

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Director Abhishek Chaubey says the late Sushant Singh Rajput was the perfect choice to lead his critically acclaimed 2019 drama Sonchiriya — more so than typical urban Bollywood stars often referred to as “Bandra boys.” The film, set in the ravines of Chambal and steeped in the gritty reality of dacoit life, has grown in stature over time and is widely regarded as one of Sushant’s most powerful performances.

In a recent interview with SCREEN, Chaubey explained that the casting decision was driven by what he described as something fundamentally “desi” about Sushant, rooted in his small-town background and grounded personality.

“We discussed his name among us, and came to an agreement that there was something inherently desi about Sushant. With other stars, these Bandra boys, not that they couldn’t do it, but it would be a longer journey for them to get to that world. For Sushant, it would be easier. He comes from a small town and has some idea of the kind of world we’re talking about,” Abhishek said.

The director went on to recall how quickly Sushant committed to the role, “Luckily for us, he said yes instantaneously. I went to meet him at four o’clock one evening while he was shooting, and the very next day, at four o’clock, he was sitting in our office and said yes to the film,” Abhishek shared.

Sushant co-starred with an ensemble that included Bhumi Pednekar, Manoj Bajpayee, Ashutosh Rana, Ranvir Shorey, and others, each delivering committed performances that enriched the film’s exploration of violence, survival, morality and brotherhood. Although Sonchiriya didn’t perform strongly at the box office at the time, it has since gained a cult following for its layered storytelling and strong ensemble cast, often highlighted as a standout in Sushant’s filmography.

Today, Sonchiriya is seen as one of the most memorable chapters of Sushant’s career — a performance that showcased his depth, intensity and ability to disappear into a role that demanded authenticity over star-power glamour.