Those who don’t believe in fairytales, need to take a look at Sushant Singh Rajput‘s career graph. His story is like a dream that came true and the best part is there is no fairy godmother involved here. The man has carved his own niche in an industry that favours only the brave. And such is the power of his perseverance that he now has as many as three films in the making. But what is it that makes Sushant tick? As the actor completes five years in the industry, let’s try and decode his success story…

Sushant’s ascension to success is the stuff legends are made of. Let’s accept it, he didn’t really have it easy. Right from shattering stereotypes attached to TV actors to being respected as someone who can carry a film on his own shoulders – Sushant’s journey has been a very inspiring tale. While many of his contemporaries are still trying to make the shift from TV to films, he has been there and done that. In fact, after Shah Rukh Khan, Sushant is the only actor to have made the transition so successfully. Even while on TV, Sushant was quite the popular guy. He played Manav Deshmukh on the popular show, Pavitra Rishta, and was a household name back then. But anyone, who is even vaguely familiar with the way popularity works, will tell you: fame is like a double-edged sword. Once you gain popularity as one particular character, you will find it hard to shed that image and get the audience to accept you in other avatars. But not only did Sushant manage to do that, he has now left his good boy-next-door image far behind.

And seems like it is his perseverance that has brought him so far. From working on his physique and now sporting six-pack abs to dancing like a pro – Sushant has mastered everything that it takes to be a star, as that’s what he is aiming to become. His debut film, Kai Po Che! turned out to be a hit and his performance in the film was lauded. However, things still took time to take off. But instead of turning back to TV, which would have been cakewalk, Sushant waited it out and was paid off in the form of a YRF film. Over the next few years, Sushant continued to do his job, without expectations, and results followed. While he dealt with flops too, there were enough hits and some gleaming reviews to keep him motivated. Now he has three films with major production houses in his kitty and much to look forward to.

Even as a person, Sushant has evolved a lot. When he had started out, no one knew what a well-read lad he is! But over the years, through his interviews and interactions, he has proved that there is much more to him than good looks and great acting. Even though we have a hard time deciphering his tweets, his social media profile is testimony to the fact that he is an intellectual. And look at his photoshoots! He is hell-bent on defying conventions, even if it means experimenting with his image. With the kind of risks he is taking, it comes as no surprise that the actor has reached so far and is raring to go ahead all guns blazing.

And though there is nothing in particular to put our finger on, Sushant certainly seems to have something working in his favour – be it his charm, acting prowess or over all presence. With the kind of confidence he exudes and the bold choices he makes in terms of roles, it is only anyone’s guess as to how far he will go. One thing, though, is sure, he won’t stop till he gets there.