Sushant Singh Rajput rejected many films because of Paani, reveals Mukesh Chhabra

Sushant Singh Rajput was found dead at his Mumbai apartment on June 14, 2020. More than three years after the untimely death of the actor, his memories and work live on. The actor was supposed to collaborate with Shekhar Kapur on a film titled Paani. Casting director Mukesh Chhabra, who directed Sushant's last film Dil Bechara, recently shed light on the actor's excitement for the film before it was shelved.

3 things you need to know

• Reportedly, a leading Hollywood actress was supposed to make her Hindi film debut with Sushant Singh Rajput in Paani.
• The film was shelved after the producers reportedly backed out of the project.
• Shekhar Kapur earlier said that Paani became an "addiction" for the late actor and he was "heartbroken" after the film was scrapped.

Mukesh Chhabra counters claims about SSR 

Speaking at the Art of Acting conversation tour in the US, Mukesh Chhabra revealed that Sushant turned down numerous other projects for Paani. He said that his decision was sometimes misconstrued as "arrogance".

The casting director also shared that despite certain assumptions, the late actor's happiness and excitement about Paani were "genuine". He said that SSR's dedication to the film led him to decline other work opportunities. Mukesh recalled the moment when Sushant's collaboration with Shekhar Kapur was confirmed and how excited the former was.

File photo of Sushant Singh Rajput (Image: X)

"He said no to so many films just because of Paani. People assumed that his newfound stardom had caused him to develop an attitude of arrogance. But he was genuinely happy and excited about the film. Everyone wants to work with Shekhar Kapur. I was there when he was confirmed for the film. He was happy like a child after the news. Unfortunately, the film didn’t happen," Mukesh said. 

Shekhar Kapur said Sushant was 'heartbroken'

In a previous interview with Film Companion, Shekhar Kapur acknowledged Sushant Singh Rajput's profound enthusiasm for Paani. He disclosed that the actor was moved to tears when the film was shelved. The Mr India director also expressed his intention to dedicate the film to Sushant if it ever sees the light of day. Paani is said to be set in the near future, addressing themes of the climate crisis. At one point, there were discussions with John Travolta for a potential role in the film.