Irrfan Khan was not just a great actor, he could also make us laugh. 5 films that prove it

Great artists live on through the body of their work. It has been two years since the death of Irrfan Khan, and for millions of moviegoers, his work has cast a lasting imprint on their psyche. His effortless charm and alluring persona breathed life into each role he played.

The quiet strength and the easy laughter he brought on the celluloid have enamoured a generation of audiences. In a career spanning three decades, Irrfan Khan has played diverse roles that stood out and testified to the reservoir of talents he was.

Other than playing serious characters, Khan's repertoire includes several slice-of-life films that had a universal appeal and entertained viewers with their humour. On his second death anniversary, here are five of his best comedy films that not only amused the audience but also left them to ponder about life and wisdom.
‘Hindi Medium’ (2017)
One of the best social comedies of its time, ‘Hindi Medium’ proved that Irrfan Khan is a truly versatile actor. This rib-tickling comedy-drama revolved around a rich couple from Delhi’s Chandi Chowk who want to get their daughter admitted to the best English medium school. The only problem here was that their language is Hindi. Irrfan Khan and Pakistani actress Saba Qamar’s pairing as the relentless husband-wife was well appreciated by viewers. At the core, the film throws light on how language divides the society, especially how it widens the gulf between classes.
‘Qarib Qarib Single’ (2017)
The film starring Irrfan Khan and Malayalam actress Parvathy Thiruvothu is a breezy contemporary love story about two people with diametrically opposite personalities who embark on an unusual journey. The romantic comedy chronicles the journey that eventually becomes an adventure of a lifetime for the two. Irrfan and Parvathy make the film a delightful view with their nuanced take on the lead pair. The film revolves around the themes of online dating, finding love and life regardless of one’s circumstances.
‘Karwaan’(2018)
The 2018 film starring Irrfan Khan, Malayalam actor Dulquer Salmaan, and Mithila Palkar is a road comedy-drama. The film chronicles Avinash (played by Dulquer) and Shaukat (Irrfan) road journey from Bengaluru to Kochi after the sudden death of the former’s father. The film showcases a unique camaraderie between Shaukat and Avinash and Tanya (Mithila). The journey of the three characters who are at different junctures in their respective lives makes for a memorable watch. ‘Karwaan’ revolves around the theme of taking a momentary pause from busy lives and moving away from the noise to find true meaning in life.
‘Piku’ (2015)
In this 2015, comedy-drama Irrfan Khan can be seen alongside megastar Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika Padukone. The film that is strewn with numerous hilarious exchanges between the lead stars is based on the theme of parental love, friendship, and in essence the basic human bond. The film went on to win overwhelming reviews from both critics and audiences. The film directed by Shoojit Sircar went on to win many accolades and the Irrfan-Deepika pairing was appreciated by the audiences.
‘Billu’ (2009)
Irrfan Khan appeared alongside superstar Shah Rukh Khan in this comedy-drama film revolving around the theme of friendship. Irrfan’s role as a commoner Bilas Rao grappling with the struggles of daily life won the hearts of the audiences. The film was a remake of the Malayalam super hit ‘Kadha Parayumbol’. The simple tale of friendship laced with humour and several moving sequences went on to create box–office success.