Nagpur is mourning the loss of actor Priyanshu Chhetri, recognized for his role as Babu Chhetri in the acclaimed film ‘Jhund’. Chhetri, also known by his moniker Babu Ravi Singh Chhetri, was allegedly murdered by his friend, Dhruv Lal Bahadur Sahu, on Wednesday. Sahu has been apprehended by the police.
The tragic event unfolded in the early hours of Wednesday following a dispute fueled by alcohol. Reports indicate that Chhetri and Sahu were known to share drinks regularly. The confrontation occurred at an abandoned site in Jaripatka after a night of drinking, where an argument took a violent turn.
According to preliminary police findings, Chhetri allegedly issued threats to Sahu during the heated exchange. Following this, Sahu is suspected of restraining Chhetri with wires and then attacking him with a sharp weapon. The Jaripatka police department was quick to respond. The accused, Sahu, who reportedly has a criminal record, was taken into custody by the Crime Detection Branch in under six hours.
Police statements also revealed that Chhetri had a history of minor offenses, including a past arrest for the theft of cash and jewelry valued at ₹5 lakh. Sources close to the investigation suggest a recent financial disagreement between Chhetri and Sahu, which may have contributed to the fatal incident. While the pair had clashed before, friends had previously mediated their disputes.
‘Jhund’, directed by Nagraj Manjule, brought to life the story of Vijay Barse’s project to uplift slum children through football. Chhetri, who came from a disadvantaged background in Nagpur, was one of the local youths featured in the film. His life was reportedly marked by struggles, including alleged addiction and involvement in petty theft.