Shekhar Suman confesses losing faith in religion after son's untimely death

Shekhar Suman, currently riding high on the success of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Heeramandi," recently opened up about the darkest chapter of his life: the tragic loss of his eldest son, Aayush, at the tender age of 11 due to a rare condition.

In a candid interview, Shekhar recounted the heartbreaking moment when his son, amidst illness, pleaded with him not to leave for work. The memory of Aayush's desperate grasp on his hand still haunts him.

Reflecting on the harrowing experience during a conversation with Connect FM Canada, Shekhar shared a poignant incident where he reluctantly left Aayush's side for a brief shoot, only to return to unimaginable grief. His son's passing shattered his belief in miracles, despite exhaustive efforts and consultations with experts worldwide.  "One day it was raining heavily and Aayush was ill. 

Knowing my child's health condition, the director asked me to come for a two-to-three-hour shoot, which I declined. He added, 'Please, it will be a tremendous loss for me', and I agreed. When I was leaving, Aayush grabbed my hand and said, 'Papa, don't leave today, please. I let go of his hand and promised him I'd be back soon."

 He said that following the incident, he shut down the temple in his home. He said, "All of the idols were taken away and dumped outside. The temple was closed. I declared that I would never return to the God who had caused me so much anguish, damaged me so much, and taken the life of a lovely, innocent kid."

Talking about his work front, in "Heeramandi," Shekhar portrays the character of Zulfiqar Ahmed, exuding authority and sophistication, while his son, Adhyayan, shares the screen as Zorawar Ali Khan, a wealthy and arrogant nawab, adding a familial dimension to the project.

The series, boasting an ensemble cast of talented actors including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Richa Chadha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Shaikh, and Sharmin Segal, captivates audiences with its gripping narrative set against the backdrop of the Diamond Bazaar.