By Tanveer Zaidi (Actor–Author–Educationist)
Renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, one of the most celebrated and daring voices in contemporary Indian cinema, has revealed intriguing details about his upcoming film “Nishaanchi” and its earlier association with the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput.
Speaking to Bollywood Reporter, Kashyap shared that this project, which is now set for release, had been in development for years and was initially planned with Sushant in the lead role.
According to Kashyap, the film was first announced in 2016 with Sushant Singh Rajput, but the actor’s rising popularity and commitments to big-banner projects pushed the film onto the back burner.
I had tried to make Nishaanchi in the past, and many actors in the industry were aware of its script. At one point, this was the film I wanted to make with Sushant.
He got two very big films with Dharma Productions—Dil Bechara and Drive. As a result, my film went on hold, and eventually, he stopped responding. I moved away, and the project was shelved temporarily. It was announced with him back in 2016,” Kashyap said candidly.
This revelation sheds light on Sushant’s early career trajectory, marked by his meteoric rise in Bollywood after entering the industry from a television background.
Anurag Kashyap: The Torchbearer of Indie Cinema
Anurag Kashyap is regarded as a pioneer of India’s new wave cinema, renowned for his bold storytelling, raw portrayal of Indian society, and willingness to challenge Bollywood’s conventional narratives. Over the years, Kashyap has carved a niche for realistic, dark, and thought-provoking cinema that resonates with audiences worldwide.
His cinematic journey is a testament to innovation and resilience. Kashyap has directed, written, and produced some of the most critically acclaimed films of the 21st century, including:
- Black Friday (2004) – A hard-hitting crime drama based on the 1993 Bombay bombings.
- Dev.D (2009) – A modern retelling of Devdas that redefined Hindi cinema’s narrative style.
- Gangs of Wasseypur (2012) – A two-part epic crime saga that became a cultural landmark in Indian cinema.
- Ugly (2014) – A gripping psychological thriller.
- Manmarziyaan (2018) – A modern romantic drama acclaimed for its layered storytelling.
Beyond films, Kashyap has been instrumental in bringing Indian content to global platforms. He co-created Netflix’s Sacred Games, India’s first Netflix original series, which achieved international recognition.
Kashyap’s contributions have earned him prestigious accolades, including the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the French government, and he has served as a jury member at major film festivals like Venice and Sundance.
His unique voice and cinematic vision have made him one of the most significant cultural influencers in Indian cinema’s evolution.
Sushant Singh Rajput’s Legacy and the 2020 Tragedy
The late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, a beloved star known for films like Kai Po Che!, MS Dhoni: The Untold Story, and Chhichhore, tragically passed away in June 2020 at his Mumbai residence.
His untimely death at the age of 34 shocked fans and sparked nationwide conversations about mental health, nepotism, and the darker side of the film industry.
Official investigations concluded that his death was a suicide, with no evidence of foul play.
Official Investigations:
- Mumbai Police initially investigated the case, confirming asphyxia due to hanging as the cause of death.
- The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) took over and, after a detailed inquiry, filed a closure report in March 2025, confirming suicide and ruling out foul play.
Controversies and Speculations:
The case fueled intense media scrutiny, conspiracy theories, and allegations of professional rivalries in Bollywood. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) also investigated allegations of drug use.
However, after exhaustive probes, both the Mumbai Police and CBI reaffirmed their findings: there was no evidence of foul play. Despite this, Sushant’s passing remains a tragic chapter in Bollywood’s history, leaving fans mourning his immense talent and potential.
A Tale of Two Visionaries
The Nishaanchi revelation offers a glimpse into the world of two extraordinary talents—Kashyap, the fearless filmmaker shaping India’s cinematic landscape, and Sushant, the self-made star whose meteoric rise captivated millions.
Their story reflects the unpredictability of the film industry, where dreams, choices, and circumstances often intersect in unforeseen ways.
As Nishaanchi gears up for its release, cinephiles eagerly await what promises to be another Kashyap masterpiece, blending storytelling excellence with cinematic boldness—a fitting tribute to India’s vibrant creative spirit.
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