Abhishek Chaubey’s Sonchiriya may not have made a mark at the box office in 2019, but the film has steadily grown in stature over the years. Set against the harsh and unforgiving ravines of Chambal, the gritty drama is now often cited as one of Sushant Singh Rajput’s most powerful and underrated performances.
In a recent interview with SCREEN, Chaubey revisited the casting process and explained why Sushant felt like a natural fit for the role. According to the director, the actor’s “desi” sensibility played a key part in the decision. He pointed out that while mainstream Bollywood stars could have eventually adapted to the rural world of the film, Sushant’s small-town background allowed him to connect with it more instinctively.
Chaubey noted that Sushant understood the emotional and social landscape of the characters with ease, which reduced the distance between the actor and the world of the film. This familiarity, he said, made the performance feel grounded and authentic, especially in a story rooted in survival, morality and violence.
The director also recalled Sushant’s swift commitment to the project as a reflection of his dedication. After an initial meeting during a shoot, the actor reportedly confirmed his participation the very next day, leaving the team assured of his involvement.
Though Sonchiriya struggled commercially, it has since found a loyal audience. Today, the film is frequently revisited as a reminder of Sushant Singh Rajput’s willingness to take creative risks and his ability to disappear into complex, unconventional roles.
