Sushant Singh Rajput dead: Tributes as popular Bollywood actor dies aged 34

Sushant Singh Rajput was a popular Bollywood actor
AP
Ewan Somerville14 June 2020
The Weekender

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Popular Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput has died aged 34, according to reports.

He was found in his apartment in suburban Bandra on Sunday, the Press Trust of India news agency and other media outlets reported.

Mumbai police spokesperson Pranaya Ashok confirmed the death and said details were being investigated, the Associated Press said.

Rajput, who started his acting career on TV, made his Bollywood debut in 2013 with director Abhishek Kapoor in Kai Po Che, based on the book by Chetan Bhagat.

Social media was flooded with tributes and messages of condolence, with many reacting to the news with disbelief.

Tributes poured in online for Sushant Singh Rajput
AFP via Getty Images

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: “Sushant Singh Rajput … a bright young actor gone too soon.

“He excelled on TV and in films. His rise in the world of entertainment inspired many and he leaves behind several memorable performances. Shocked by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and fans. Om Shanti.”

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar wrote on Twitter: “Honestly this news has left me shocked and speechless.”

“I can’t believe this at all… it’s shocking… a beautiful actor and a good friend… it’s disheartening,” actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui tweeted.

An ambulance thought to be carrying the body of Sushant Singh Rajput leaves his residence
AFP via Getty Images

Hindi actor Sidharth Malhotra added: “Shocked and extremely sad, a fellow colleague with such good work backing him. Gone to soon, rest in peace bro. My prayer with his family and loved ones.”

Rajput played former Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the 2016 film MS Dhoni: The Untold Story.

His other movies included Kedarnath, Sonchiriya (Golden Bird) and Raabta (Connection). He was last seen in the Netflix film Drive.

In his final Instagram post, the actor shared a photo of his mother with the caption: "Blurred past evaporating from teardrops, Unending dreams carving an arc of smile and a fleeting life, negotiating between the two."

Mumbai, India’s financial hub and home to Bollywood, has been grappling with the coronavirus pandemic, which has brought the business of entertainment to a complete halt in the country.

For confidential support, call Samaritans on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org.

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