Yesterday was the third death anniversary of the celebrated actor Irrfan Khan, an outstanding artist, whose legacy will never die. Khan passed away on April 29, 2020, after an extensive battle with neuroendocrine cancer, since 2018.
Irrfan Khan, who was born on January 7, 1967, in Tonk, Rajasthan, India, made his debut with ‘Salaam Bombay’ (1988). He established himself as one of the most celebrated actors, both domestically and internationally. Along with six Filmfare Awards, he was also honoured with the National Film Award and the Asian Film Award. A posthumous Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award was given to him in addition to the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India.
Irrfan had appeared in several films of different genres. On his third death anniversary, let us look at some of his best performances.
‘Maqbool’ (2004) instantly comes to mind while discussing his memorable performances. The actor was impeccable as Miyan Maqbool in Vishal Bhardwaj’s rendition of Macbeth novel by William Shakespeare.
The crime drama ‘Aan – Men at Work’ (2004) was directed by Madhur Bhandarkar in which Irrfan portrayed the role of the mobster Yusuf Pathan. It must be acknowledged that despite the presence of seasoned performers like Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal and Om Puri, his performance stood out. It wouldn’t be unfair to state that his performance reminded us of yesteryear actor and legendary Pran.
Irrfan portrayed Ashoke Ganguli, an Indian immigrant who struggles to make a life in the US as a university professor with Bengali roots while preserving his original culture, in the English-language film ‘The Namesake’ (2007). At the time, both the movie and his performance received a lot of praise and continues to be fondly remembered even today.
‘The Lunchbox’ (2013) by Ritesh Batra was an unusual love story of regular individuals who have long lived in a world devoid of warmth and compassion. The main couple falls in love over multiple lunchboxes, which one prepares and the other devours. Saajan, portrayed by Irrfan Khan, is vulnerable, righteous and hopeful all at the same time. The film highlights his unmatched likeability and appeal. The film drew on Khan’s abilities as a performer who spoke mostly via his eyes.
Irrfan Khan could personalize a show without having to take the lead role, as proven by his act in ‘Piku’ (2015). His character Rana is adorable in this heartwarming story of a father and daughter, stealing everyone’s heart with his charm and transparency.
