India, Jan. 10 -- Even years after his untimely departure, Sushant Singh Rajput's legacy continues to resonate through his body of work. While he delivered several standout performances, Sonchiriya (2019) remains a definitive masterpiece for his most devoted followers.

Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, the 2019 film was set in the harsh ravines of Chambal and traced the lives of dacoits navigating violence, guilt and survival. Years after its release, the filmmaker has spoken about why Sushant was his first choice for the role and why he felt the actor brought something many star kids could not.

When Sonchiriya released, it was praised for its realism. While it was positioned as a period action drama, the film offered a deeper meditation on...