This comprehensive biography explores the life and career of the renowned Bollywood actor Irrfan Khan, from his early years to his lasting impact on cinema.

Wiki/Biography

Irrfan Khan, born Sahabzade Irfan Ali Khan on January 7, 1967, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, passed away on April 29, 2020, at the age of 53. His passion for cricket was evident from a young age, even playing in the CK Nayudu tournament. He pursued an MA degree, earning a scholarship to the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD) in 1984, where he forged a friendship with Tigmanshu Dhulia. After graduating with a diploma in acting, he moved to Mumbai to pursue his acting career.

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 6’2″
• Hair Colour: Black
• Eye Colour: Dark Brown

Family & Caste/Ethnicity

He hailed from a Pashto-speaking Nawab Muslim Pathan family in Jaipur, Rajasthan. His family background significantly influenced his later perspectives.

Parents & Siblings

His father, Sahabzada Yaseen Ali Khan, was a businessman, and his mother, Begum Khan, from the Tonk Hakim family, passed away just days before Irrfan. He had two brothers, Salman Khan and Imran Khan, and a sister, Rukhsana Begum.

Relationships, Wife & Children

Irrfan married Sutapa Sikdar, a dialogue writer, on February 23, 1995. Sutapa belonged to a Hindu Brahmin family. The couple had two sons: Ayaan Khan and Babil Khan.

Signature/Autograph

While not directly discussed, this section could include an image of his signature if available.

Career

Television

Irrfan’s television debut was in the 1985 serial “Shrikant” on Doordarshan. His career included roles in notable shows like “Bharat Ek Khoj,” “Chanakya,” “Chandrakanta,” and “Sparsh.” He also showcased his versatility in roles ranging from a serial killer in “Darr” to Makhdoom Mohiuddin in “Kahkashan”. His final TV appearance was in the Japanese miniseries “Tokyo Trial” (2016).

Last TV Show

His last television role was as Radhabinod Pal in “Tokyo Trial”.

Film

While his early film role in “Salaam Bombay!” (1988) was edited out, Irrfan’s career steadily grew. He gained critical acclaim for roles in films such as “Ek Doctor Ki Maut” (1990) and “Such a Long Journey” (1998). His performance in “The Warrior” (2001) brought international recognition.

His role in “Haasil” (2003) cemented his place in Bollywood. He won widespread praise for his performance in “Paan Singh Tomar” (2012), earning him a National Film Award for Best Actor.

Other significant roles included those in “Maqbool,” “Haider” (both by Vishal Bhardwaj), “Slumdog Millionaire,” “Life of Pi,” “The Lunchbox,” “Piku,” “Hindi Medium,” and “Blackmail”.

Last Film

His final film role was as Champak Bansal in “Angrezi Medium” (2020).

Awards/Honours

Irrfan Khan received numerous accolades throughout his career.

Controversy

In 2016, Irrfan’s comments on the Qurbani ritual during Eid-al-Adha drew criticism from some Islamic clerics.

Death

Irrfan Khan passed away on April 29, 2020, at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai due to a colon infection. He had been battling a neuroendocrine tumour since 2018.

Favourites

• Actor: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Marlon Brando
• Film: The Men (1950)
• Colour: Black
• Sport: Cricket
• Restaurant: Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat in France

Facts/Trivia

• Irrfan was a chain smoker.
• He changed his name spelling from “Irfan” to “Irrfan” in 2012.
• He was a vegetarian despite his Pathan heritage.
• He was known for his compassionate nature and love for animals.
• He was the only Indian actor on The Independent’s list of 60 best actors of the 21st century.
• He once owned a ten rupee note with his birthdate on the serial number.