Nagpur, India – In a shocking incident, Priyanshu, the young Indian actor who gained recognition for his role alongside Amitabh Bachchan in the 2022 film Jhund, was allegedly murdered by his friend after a drunken altercation.
According to Indian news agency reports, the 21-year-old actor, also known by his real name Babu Ravi Singh Chhetri, was found dead on Wednesday morning (October 8) in Nagpur. Police have arrested Dhruv Lal Bahadur, aged 20, identified as the prime suspect in the murder case.
Authorities revealed that Priyanshu and Dhruv were close friends who often drank together. On Tuesday night, the two reportedly went to an abandoned house in the Jaripatka area to drink alcohol. During the drinking session, an argument broke out between them. Priyanshu allegedly threatened to harm Dhruv before falling asleep, which police believe led the suspect to act out of fear and anger.
In a gruesome turn of events, Dhruv allegedly tied Priyanshu with plastic wires and attacked him with a sharp object, inflicting fatal wounds. The actor was discovered the next morning in a semi-naked condition, with his hands and feet bound by plastic cords.
Local residents alerted the police after discovering the body. Priyanshu was rushed to a nearby hospital, but doctors pronounced him dead upon arrival. The police later detained the suspect and recovered the alleged murder weapon.
Investigators stated that preliminary evidence points to a crime of panic and rage committed under the influence of alcohol. The autopsy report has confirmed multiple deep injuries consistent with a violent assault.
Priyanshu’s tragic death has left the Indian film industry in mourning. The young actor had shown immense promise after appearing in Jhund, a film directed by Nagraj Manjule and based on the life of football coach Vijay Barse. Amitabh Bachchan played the lead role in the critically acclaimed sports drama, and Priyanshu’s performance as one of the street football players earned him early fame.
Industry colleagues and fans have expressed shock over the brutal killing of the emerging star. Many took to social media to remember his short but impactful contribution to Indian cinema and to call for stronger measures to prevent alcohol-related violence among youth.
Police officials have confirmed that the suspect remains in custody and will be produced before a local court after interrogation. Investigations are underway to determine whether the attack was premeditated or the result of a sudden outburst during the argument.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted the growing issue of youth violence linked to substance abuse in India. Authorities have urged the public to report suspicious or violent behavior early to prevent such devastating outcomes in the future.
