Irrfan Khan, an Indian actor born in 1967, established a career that bridged the divide between Indian cinema and international productions. Throughout a professional life spanning over three decades, he transitioned from stage work and television serials to prominent roles in global box office hits, ultimately securing his standing as a versatile performer across multiple languages.
Early Development and Training
Born in Tonk, India, Khan moved to Jaipur before pursuing higher education. He completed an MA and subsequently joined the National School of Drama in New Delhi in 1984. During his initial time in Mumbai, he worked as an air conditioner repairman while attempting to break into the acting profession. His background included significant stage performances and early interest in cricket, though professional sporting ambitions were curtailed by financial constraints.
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Beginning in the late 1980s, Khan participated in numerous television serials, including Chanakya, Bharat Ek Khoj, and the supernatural drama Chandrakanta. He acted in teleplays and various episodic series such as Star Bestsellers and Bhanvar. His early film appearances included roles in Salaam Bombay!, Ek Doctor Ki Maut, and Kamla Ki Maut. These years involved persistent struggle to secure substantial parts within the Indian industry.
Breakthrough and Global Recognition
His career gained momentum with the lead role in the film The Warrior in 2001, which he later identified as a pivotal project that encouraged him to continue acting. Success followed with lead roles in Haasil and the Shakespearean adaptation Maqbool. He subsequently achieved critical acclaim for his participation in The Namesake, The Lunchbox, Piku, and Paan Singh Tomar, the latter earning him a National Film Award for Best Actor. His international profile grew through supporting roles in major productions like Slumdog Millionaire, Life of Pi, and Jurassic World.
Final Projects and Legacy
In his later years, Khan appeared in the comedy-drama Hindi Medium, which became his highest-grossing Hindi film release. He also appeared in its sequel, Angrezi Medium, which was his final film appearance. Diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer in March 2018, he died in Mumbai on 29 April 2020. His contributions were recognized with several honors, including the Padma Shri in 2011 and multiple Filmfare Awards.
Fast facts
- Born: 1967, Tonk, India
- Died: 2020, Mumbai, India
- Education: National School of Drama
- Citizenship: India
- Award: Padma Shri (2011)
- Languages: Hindi, English
- Final film appearance: Angrezi Medium (2020)
Questions readers ask
What was Irrfan Khan's highest-grossing Hindi film?
His highest-grossing Hindi film was the 2017 comedy-drama Hindi Medium.
Did Irrfan Khan win a National Film Award?
Yes, he won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of the title character in Paan Singh Tomar.
Achievements
- National Film Award for Best Actor
- Notable work: Hindi Medium
- Notable work: Karwaan
- Notable work: Blackmail
- Notable work: Paan Singh Tomar
- Worked as stage actor, film actor and television actor
