Irrfan Khan was a highly acclaimed Indian actor known for his remarkable performances in both Bollywood and international cinema. Here’s an overview of his life and career:
Early Life
- Birth: Born on January 7, 1967, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
- Education: He studied at the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi, where he developed his passion for acting.
Film Career
- Debut: Irrfan made his film debut in the 1988 movie Salaam Bombay!, directed by Mira Nair, though he gained recognition later.
- Breakthrough Roles: His breakout role came in Maqbool (2003), a film inspired by Shakespeare's Macbeth. He received critical acclaim for his performance.
- Notable Films: He starred in many successful films, including Paan Singh Tomar (2012), for which he won the National Film Award for Best Actor, Lunchbox (2013), which gained international recognition, and Hindi Medium (2017).
- International Success: Irrfan also appeared in Hollywood films such as Slumdog Millionaire (2008), Life of Pi (2012), and Jurassic World (2015), earning him a global fanbase.
Awards and Recognition
- Throughout his career, Irrfan received numerous awards, including several Filmfare Awards, a National Film Award, and accolades from international film festivals for his outstanding performances.
Personal Life
- He married Sutapa Sikdar in 1995, and the couple had two sons. He was known for being private about his family life.
Health Challenges and Passing
- In 2018, Irrfan announced that he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, neuroendocrine tumor. He underwent treatment in India and abroad but continued to work during his recovery.
- Death: He passed away on April 29, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of powerful performances and a profound impact on Indian and international cinema.
Influence and Legacy
- Irrfan Khan is remembered as one of the finest actors of his generation, known for his ability to bring depth and nuance to every role. His work continues to inspire actors and filmmakers across the globe.