Today marks four years since the loss of Sushant Singh Rajput, the incredibly talented Bollywood actor whose sudden passing left fans reeling and sparked vital conversations about mental health and the pressures of showbiz.
Mental health awareness has gained traction in Bollywood in recent years, with industry professionals speaking out about their own struggles and advocating for greater understanding and support. Here’s how mental health intersects with Bollywood:
- Celebrity Advocacy: Several Bollywood celebrities have openly discussed their experiences with mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and stress. By sharing their stories, they help reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help. Personalities like Deepika Padukone, Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka Sharma, and Varun Dhawan have been vocal advocates for mental health awareness.
- Portrayal in Films: Bollywood films have begun to explore mental health themes more prominently, shedding light on the challenges individuals face and the importance of seeking help. Movies like “Dear Zindagi,” “Tamasha,” and “Chhichhore” tackle topics such as depression, identity crisis, and academic pressure, sparking conversations and raising awareness.
- Depiction of Characters: Characters grappling with mental health issues are increasingly depicted in Bollywood films, showcasing the complexities and struggles they face. These portrayals aim to humanize mental illness and foster empathy and understanding among viewers.
- Social Media Influence: Bollywood celebrities often use their social media platforms to promote mental health awareness campaigns, share resources, and provide words of encouragement to their followers. Their influence helps reach a wider audience and amplify the message of mental well-being.
- Professional Challenges: The demanding nature of the entertainment industry can take a toll on mental health, with long working hours, intense scrutiny, and high expectations contributing to stress and burnout. Bollywood professionals, including actors, directors, and technicians, face unique pressures that may impact their mental well-being.
- Self-care Practices: Bollywood personalities increasingly emphasize the importance of self-care practices such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. By prioritizing self-care, they set an example for fans and colleagues alike.
- Advocacy Initiatives: Various initiatives and organizations within Bollywood work to promote mental health awareness and support. These include workshops, seminars, and campaigns aimed at destigmatizing mental illness, providing resources, and fostering a supportive industry culture.
Rajput’s versatility and dedication to his craft earned him widespread acclaim, and his absence continues to be felt deeply. As we reflect on his legacy today, let’s remember the six beautiful films that showcase his remarkable talent and celebrate the lasting impact he made on Indian cinema.
On his Death Anniversary, here are 6 beautiful films of Sushant Singh Rajput to remember him by: –
- Kai Po Che! (2013) – Directed by Abhishek Kapoor, this film is based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel “The 3 Mistakes of My Life.” Sushant portrayed one of the lead roles as Ishaan, a passionate and ambitious young man who dreams of starting his own sports academy. The film explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams against the backdrop of Gujarat’s political and social landscape.
- PK (2014) – Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, “PK” is a satirical comedy-drama that follows the journey of an alien (played by Aamir Khan) who lands on Earth and questions religious beliefs and practices. Sushant had a supporting role as Sarfaraz Yousuf, a Pakistani Muslim who falls in love with an Indian woman. Despite a relatively small role, Sushant’s performance was notable for its sincerity and warmth.
- Detective Byomkesh Bakshy! (2015) – Directed by Dibakar Banerjee, this neo-noir mystery thriller is based on the fictional detective Byomkesh Bakshi created by Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay. Sushant portrayed the titular character, a young and brilliant detective, in this atmospheric period film set in 1940s Kolkata. His portrayal was praised for its depth and authenticity, capturing the essence of the iconic literary figure.
- M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016) – Directed by Neeraj Pandey, this biographical sports drama chronicles the life of Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Sushant delivered a career-defining performance as Dhoni, depicting his journey from a young boy with a passion for cricket to becoming one of India’s most successful cricket captains. His portrayal was widely acclaimed for its authenticity and emotional depth.
- Raabta (2017) – Directed by Dinesh Vijan, “Raabta” is a romantic fantasy film that explores themes of reincarnation and eternal love. Sushant played the dual roles of Shiv and Jilaan, two characters separated by centuries but connected by destiny and a timeless love story. Despite receiving mixed reviews, Sushant’s performance was praised for his chemistry with co-star Kriti Sanon and his earnest portrayal of both characters.
- Chhichhore (2019) – Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, “Chhichhore” is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that celebrates the bonds of friendship and the spirit of resilience. Sushant starred as Anirudh “Anni” Pathak, a middle-aged man reminiscing about his college days with his friends and reflecting on the lessons they learned together. The film received widespread acclaim for its relatable storytelling and heartfelt performances, including Sushant’s poignant portrayal of Anni.
