Irrfan Khan, an actor much loved for his brilliance in Bollywood and respected for his art in Hollywood, has passed away at the age of 54. The actor was battling a rare form of neuroendocrine tumour since his diagnosis in 2018, and was rushed to the hospital on Tuesday due to a colon infection. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai.
Just three days ago, the actor lost his 95-year-old mother, Saeeda Begum. On Tuesday evening, he was admitted to the hospital for colon infection, and was under observation. Rumours began pouring in of his passing, however, his spokesperson shut them down last last night, stating that Irrfan was still fighting.
However, the news of his passing has now been confirmed in an official statement.
"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 heaven abode, leaving behind truly a legacy of his own."
Irrfan was known for his stoic performances in Bollywood movies like Salaam Bombay!, Haider, Maqbool, Paan Singh Tomar, Hindi Medium, Piku, Karwaan and The Lunchbox, amongst others,
He was one of the few Indian actors who managed to be cast in genuine, substantial roles in Hollywood movies, including Slumdog Millionaire, The Amazing Spider-Man, Inferno, The Namesake, Jurassic World and Life of Pi.
The actor's last film, Angrezi Medium, released in March. Before the trailer for the film dropped, a heartwarming message from Irrfan was released. In that message, the actor spoke about the unfortunate circumstances regarding his health that had delayed the film, and he hoped everyone would watch the movie with their loved ones.
Rest in peace, Irrfan. You fought, and you fought, and we will remember you for your bravery and all the joy you, your movies and your humour gave us.
