The film industry was left reeling in 2021 when actor Rajiv Kapoor succumbed to a heart attack. Now, a close friend and fellow actor, Khushbu Sundar, has shed light on a lesser-known aspect of Rajiv’s life: his struggles with alcoholism.

Khushbu revealed that Rajiv’s casual approach to his drinking problem was a major concern for his friends and family. Despite his friends’ efforts to intervene, Rajiv failed to acknowledge the gravity of his addiction. This lack of awareness ultimately took a devastating toll on his health. While talking to Vickey Lalwani, Khushbu revealed, “He did have a heart issue, but because of his addiction to alcohol, we knew that it could create a huge problem. We were not successful in making him quit this habit. He (Rajiv) was keeping extremely low. He had a major issue with his knee, so he underwent a couple of surgeries. But that didn’t help him at all. We were definitely aware that Chimpu was unwell.”

But the news of his death still came as a shocker. “I was in Bombay when Chimpu died. I was informed about his death by Boney Kapoor. He called me and said, ‘Chimpu is no more’. It came as a rude shock to me,” added Khushbu.

Their Last Conversation…

Even as his physical health faltered, Rajiv’s spirit remained unbroken. Khushbu recalled a conversation with Rajiv just a day before his death, during which he seemed his usual lively self, despite being bedridden with a high fever. “I spoke to Chimpu just a day before his death. He was down with very high fever and it was during COVID-19. Despite being unwell, he was being his usual self… He was taking his health lightly and promised to meet soon. His death came as a shock to me. It is very rare to find people with so much liveliness and the commitment towards their friends and friendships. We still believe he is with us,” she shared.

About Rajiv And Khushbu’s Bond

Khushbu Sundar and Rajiv Kapoor forged an unbreakable bond during the filming of Ram Teri Ganga Maili, a connection that transcended time and circumstance. Even in death, Khushbu has chosen to hold on to a reminder of their friendship. Rajiv’s phone number remains saved in her mobile. Though she cherishes the memories of their time together, Khushbu admits to a lingering regret: losing touch with Rajiv’s family.