In a way it is touching that Veer Pahariya, who explosively burst into Bollywood last Friday with his debut film ‘Sky Force’, should count the late Sushant Singh Rajput as one of the great influences on his acting career. SSR sadly did not have a long innings in Bollywood himself. But he had a meaningful one from his debut in 2013 with ‘Kai Po Che’ to ‘Dil Bechara’ that was released in 2020 just after his tragic end. In seven years, he acted in about 21 films. And they made a suitable impression on young Veer.

Talking to the media while acknowledging the handsome praise being showered upon him for his impressive performance in ‘Sky Force’, Veer admitted that the manner in which SSR went about selecting films had a significant impact on his own approach. Sushant's diverse and inspiring career became a guiding example for him as an aspiring actor, Veer has said. Knowing the importance of doing a meaningful film like ‘Sky Force’ with a story that resonates with the audience, Veer is determined to make his future choices on these lines only.

It is here that SSR seems to be speaking to Veer from the other side and inspiring him with his own seamless transition from television to one of Bollywood’s most respected actors. Veer admits, “Sushant left a lasting impression on the industry with his versatility, originality, and dedication.” His career choices, balancing meaningful storytelling with commercial appeal, continue to resonate with young artistes. “I have been his big fan from his TV days up to his last film. He was a man, an actor, and an artiste with a voice. He had a certain originality, and I really respect that about him. Sushant is someone who truly inspired me.”