Anurag Kashyap reveals 'Nishaanchi' was put on backburner by Sushant after Dharma films: 'Stopped responding'

Acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap is currently gearing up for the release of his next directorial venture, Nishaanchi, which stars Aaishvary Thackeray in the lead role. Known for his bold storytelling and unconventional narratives, Kashyap recently reflected on the film’s early journey and shared that it was originally conceptualized with late actor Sushant Singh Rajput in mind.

In a candid interview with Galatta Plus, Kashyap spoke about how the film's casting changed over time due to shifting priorities and circumstances. He revealed that Sushant was his first choice for the project and the two were in discussions as early as 2016. However, after the actor signed on to star in two major films produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions—Dil Bechara and Drive—communication between the two began to fade.

“This was the film that I, at one point, wanted to make with Sushant (Singh Rajput). And then he got two very big films – Dil Bechara and Drive – they were both with Dharma earlier. Then my film was on a backburner, then he stopped responding, so I then moved away. It was announced with him back in 2016,” Kashyap stated during the interview.

This was the film that I, at one point, wanted to make with Sushant (Singh Rajput). And then he got two very big films – Dil Bechara and Drive – they were both with Dharma earlier. Then my film was on a backburner, then he stopped responding, so I then moved away. It was announced with him back in 2016

- Anurag Kashyap

Sushant Singh Rajput tragically passed away on June 14, 2020. His sudden death, ruled a suicide, sent shockwaves throughout the film industry and the nation. The incident sparked intense media coverage, conspiracy theories, and debates about mental health and the power dynamics within Bollywood.

In earlier interviews following the actor's death, Anurag Kashyap had mentioned that Sushant sought validation from the industry's leading production houses, including Yash Raj Films (YRF) and Dharma Productions. According to Kashyap, this pursuit of approval from big banners may have played a role in shaping some of the actor’s career choices.

Though Nishaanchi eventually moved forward with a different cast, the story behind its inception highlights the complexities of film collaborations in an industry often driven by power, prestige, and shifting allegiances.