Sushant Singh Rajput Death Anniversary : Even though five years have passed since Sushant Singh Rajput left us, his powerful presence on screen still feels fresh in the hearts of his fans. With each performance, SSR brought a blend of intensity and vulnerability that made him one of the most unique talents in Bollywood. From charming romantic leads to complex, layered characters, Sushant’s roles reflected his passion for the craft.
On his fifth death anniversary, we pay tribute to his legacy with five must-watch films currently available on OTT platforms — stories that continue to inspire and resonate.
1. Kedarnath
Platform: Zee5
Set against the backdrop of the tragic 2013 Uttarakhand floods, Kedarnath tells the heart-wrenching love story between Mansoor (Sushant Singh Rajput), a kind-hearted Muslim porter, and Mukku (Sara Ali Khan), a Hindu Brahmin girl from a conservative household.
Directed by Abhishek Kapoor, the film not only tackles themes of love and religion but also captures the fury of nature. Sushant’s portrayal of Mansoor is subtle yet deeply emotional — his gentle smile and expressive eyes spoke louder than words. It’s a performance filled with grace and compassion, one that continues to move audiences.
2. Shuddh Desi Romance
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
In this offbeat take on modern love, Sushant plays Raghu, a man caught between his fear of commitment and his desire for companionship. After fleeing from his own wedding, Raghu ends up in a live-in relationship with Gayatri (Parineeti Chopra). But life throws a twist when Tara (Vaani Kapoor), the bride he jilted, walks back into his life.
Sushant’s effortless performance made Raghu a relatable and lovable character. His raw charm and easy chemistry with both co-stars made the film an enjoyable and refreshing romantic comedy. This role solidified his position as a rising star who wasn’t afraid to pick unconventional scripts.
3. Sonchiriya
Platform: Zee5
In Sonchiriya, Sushant took a bold turn with the role of Lakhna, a dacoit battling guilt, karma, and caste conflict in the ravines of Chambal. Set in the gritty 1970s, this film is a layered and intense portrayal of rebellion and redemption.
Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, the film’s use of regional dialect and its raw, unfiltered setting added to its authenticity. Despite being an ensemble cast, Sushant’s restrained yet emotionally powerful performance stood out. It’s one of his most critically acclaimed roles, and a reminder of his range as an actor.
4. Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
In a complete genre shift, Sushant slipped into the role of Bengal’s iconic fictional detective in Detective Byomkesh Bakshy! Set in 1940s Calcutta, the movie is a gripping mystery where Byomkesh investigates a chemist’s disappearance, only to stumble upon a much bigger conspiracy.
Directed by Dibakar Banerjee, the film’s noir tone and stylized treatment offered a fresh cinematic experience. Sushant immersed himself in the role, adopting Bengali mannerisms and even altering his lifestyle to prepare for it. Though the film didn’t make a splash at the box office, it’s now seen as one of his boldest and most layered performances.
Sushant’s films are more than just stories — they’re emotional experiences. Watching his work allows us to feel his spirit and dedication all over again. His passion, intellect, and honesty on screen made each character unforgettable. As we mark five years of his absence, revisiting these films is not just a tribute — it’s a way to celebrate a shining star whose light will never fade.
