Bollywood’s
shining star Sushant Singh Rajput was admired for his acting talent and dedication, but few may know that from a very young age, he had a deep fascination with science and space. The actor, who won hearts with roles like Ishan Bhatt in Kai Po Che! and Lakhna in Sonchiriya, was curious about stars, planets, and aerospace technology. As a child, he would often gaze at the sky through his telescope, trying to learn as much as possible about the universe. From his interest in stars and science to being a star himself, Sushant Singh Rajput's work and journey have been inspiring to all. On what would have been his 40th birthday, we are taking a look at SSR's journey.
Sushant Singh Rajput's early life in Patna
Sushant Singh Rajput was born on January 21, 1986, in Maldiha, Patna district, Bihar. He was the only son among four sisters. As a child, he was known by his birth name, Gulshan, which he used at school. Being the youngest in the family, he was showered with love and attention. Tragically, his mother passed away in 2002, after which the family relocated to Delhi. There, while continuing his education, Sushant nurtured his interest in science and space even further.
SSR's academic excellence and shift to acting
Sushant was always an exceptional student. He secured the seventh rank in the All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE) and began studying mechanical engineering. However, gradually, his heart gravitated toward acting. He joined Shiamak Davar’s dance group and participated in theatre workshops. After moving to Mumbai, he worked as a background dancer and theatre artist, taking on small projects that honed his craft.
Sushant Singh Rajput's journey to TV shows
He trained at Barry John’s Acting Workshop and gradually entered the world of television. His first break came with the show
Kis Desh Mein Hai Mera Dil, but it was
Pavitra Rishta that gave him widespread recognition, bringing him into the homes and hearts of audiences across India.
Sushant's Bollywood career
Sushant transitioned to films with his debut
Kai Po Che!, which was followed by notable performances in
Sonchiriya, Shuddh Desi Romance, PK, Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!, and
MS Dhoni: The Untold Story. Beyond acting, he was skilled in martial arts, dance, and even behind-the-camera work, serving as an assistant director in
Raazi 2, where he deepened his technical understanding of filmmaking.
Sushant SIngh Rajput's interest in Cosmos
Sushant’s love for science remained a lifelong passion. He owned a powerful telescope to observe celestial events and was eager to learn about black holes, craters on the moon, and the vastness of space. Actor Ranveer Shourie once shared that Sushant would read Philip Roth, quote Walt Whitman and E.E. Cummings, and marvel at the stars, describing how they seemed to embrace each other in the night sky.
SSR's legacy
Sushant’s talent earned him multiple awards, particularly for his portrayal of cricket legend MS Dhoni. Yet, on June 14, 2020, the world lost this rising star unexpectedly, leaving a profound void in the film industry and in the hearts of millions of fans. Beyond his on-screen brilliance, Sushant Singh Rajput will be remembered as a curious soul who looked at the stars and dreamed big.