Bollywood actor Irrfan Khan, renowned internationally for roles in the hit films Slumdog Millionaire and Jurassic World, has died at the age of 53.
Considered by many to be Bollywood’s gift to Bollywood, the actor breathed his last at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday. Irrfan is survived by wife Sutapa Sikder, and sons Babil and Ayan.
Regarded as one of Bollywood’s most versatile stars, never seemed to have a hard time negotiating the tricky terrain between Bollywood and art house movies.
In 2018, the actor revealed he had an endocrine tumour, a rare cancer before undergoing treatment in a London hospital for the illness, which affects cells that release hormones into the bloodstream.
“I trust, I have surrendered,” he wrote in a heartfelt note after he broke the news of his battle with cancer.
Khan, who made his screen debut in the Academy Award-nominated 1988 drama “Salaam Bombay!,” a tale of Mumbai’s street children, also made a reputation for himself as someone who turned down potentially blockbuster Hollywood roles.
In an interview with HT Brunch in 2016, Irrfan said that though he found success in Hollywood, he ‘never really felt like leaving India’. “I keep getting interesting offers.
“If I were younger, I might have thought of relocating to Hollywood. But I never really felt like leaving India. My people are here and so are my stories.
“Today, small and unconventional films are redefining cinema in India. And I am happy to be part of this brave, new world. Hollywood is just a bonus,” he had said.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described his death as “a loss to the world of cinema and theatre”.
“He will be remembered for his versatile performances across different mediums. My thoughts are with his family, friends and admirers. May his soul rest in peace,” he tweeted.
After his death his spokesman issued the following statement; “…And a man of few words and an actor of silent expressions with his deep eyes and his memorable actions on screen. It’s saddening that this day, we have to bring forward the news of him passing away.
“Irrfan was a strong soul, someone who fought till the very end and always inspired everyone who came close to him.
“After having been struck by lightning in 2018 with the news of a rare cancer, he took life soon after as it came and he fought the many battles that came with it.
“Surrounded by his love, his family for whom he most cared about, he left for his heavenly abode, leaving behind truly a legacy of his own.
“We all pray and hope that he is at peace. And to resonate and part with his words he had said, “As if I was tasting life for the first time, the magical side of it.”
Khan was buried at the Versova Kabristan cemetery in Mumbai soon after the news of his death was announced. His family, close relatives and friends were present.
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