Bigg Boss 18 winner Karan Veer Mehra recently shared in an interview to ETimes, the very personal and intimate association he has always shared with late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, under whose mentorship he transformed in life. Deeply emotional Karan Veer Mehra of Bigg Boss 18 expressed how the departed Sushant Singh Rajput played a life-changing role for him in terms of breaking out of his habits of alcoholism and bringing a grip on life.

The beginning of a strong friendship
It was on the sets of the famous TV serial Pavitra Rishta that Karan Veer first met Sushant Singh Rajput. These two actors who shared a love for their work became close friends. While Sushant climbed the ladder of success in Bollywood, Karan Veer found himself in the midst of a personal crisis that would take him down a dark path.
Battling Alcoholism: Sushant’s Role in Karan Veer’s Life
Karan Veer remembered that after Pavitra Rishta he had such a severe accident, due to which he resulted in his downfall into alcoholism. It was during that time that Sushant stepped in as a beacon of hope. He said, “There was a time after Pavitra Rishta when I met with an accident and fell into alcoholism. That’s when Sushant entered my life and helped me find my way out. He lifted me.”
Sushant, being very good at heart and never failing a friend, asked him to come out with open fingers. He always motivated the fellow to focus on his talent and hard work towards his goals.
Sushant’s Encouragement and Praise
Karan Veer further narrated how Sushant used to encourage him to perform better. He quoted an instance in which Sushant told him that Karan was a better actor than him. “Sushant used to genuinely praise me and believe in me more. Ye kaise keh sakta hai ke main iss better hoon. He is one of the top stars in the country, and he’s saying I’m better than him. He would say, ‘Bas mujhe chance mil gaya, tu hota toh tu bahut sahi karta.’”
The humility and generosity of Sushant’s words left a deep impact on Karan Veer. He accepted that the confidence that started rising in him after hearing those words from the successful actor. “It’s very big of him to say that. Main nahi bol paaunga shayad. When your family members do that, like your mother, they do it out of love. But when he used to say all those things to me, ek alag confidence aata tha mere andar.”. I used to feel that if he’s saying it, then I should do something for him.
Meeting Mukesh Chhabra Through Sushant
Sushant Singh Rajput also introduced Karan Veer to Mukesh Chhabra, one of the top casting directors in Bollywood. Recalling this, Karan Veer said, “I met Mukesh Chhabra through him. He would party somewhere and suddenly call me, ‘Bhai aaja.’ He would arrange things for me.”
Sushant’s selfless nature and willingness to help his friends whenever needed played a major role in shaping Karan Veer’s career and life.
The Regret of Not Being There
Despite the very close friendship that existed between them, Karan Veer says he is only left with a feeling of deep regret for not being there when Sushant needed him most. He stated his guilt: “I don’t know how, when, and I’m so guilty that I was not there for him when he needed me.”
Having lost contact years before Sushant’s tragic demise in 2020, the memory of Karan Veer was haunting as he reflected on them spending quality time over the years.

Karan Veer – The Bigg Boss 18 Winner
Despite all of these, Karan Veer emerged stronger. He recently emerged victorious in the Bigg Boss 18, winning against Vivian Dsena in the finale. Karan Veer’s journey into the entertainment world continues, taking along with himself the valuable lessons he learned from Sushant.
Sushant Singh Rajput was more than just a Bollywood star; he was a true friend and mentor to many. His kindness, humility, and willingness to help others continue to inspire those who knew him. Karan Veer Mehra’s story is a testament to the impact Sushant had on his life, proving that true friendships leave lasting marks even after one is gone.
FAQs
How did Sushant Singh Rajput support Karan Veer Mehra in overcoming alcoholism?
Sushant was emotionally and morally supportive to Karan Veer during the trying time when he had slipped into alcoholism following an accident. He motivated him to regain confidence in himself by focusing on his career.
What was the nature of Karan Veer and Sushant’s friendship?
Karan Veer and Sushant had become great friends while working with each other on Pavitra Rishta. The bond between them was strong enough to be trustful, encouraging, and admirative.
Did Sushant get Karan Veer to some influential people in the industry?
Yes, Sushant introduced Karan Veer to the casting director Mukesh Chhabra, which played a huge role in his professional life.
What makes Karan Veer feel guilty about Sushant’s death?
Karan Veer laments not having been there for Sushant when he must have needed the most support. He feels that he is too guilty for not having kept in touch with him before his death in 2020.
What recent achievement has Karan Veer Mehra attained?
Karan Veer Mehra recently emerged as the winner of Bigg Boss 18, defeating Vivian Dsena in the finale.
