LeoGlossary: Irrfan Khan (Actor)

Born: January 7, 1967 – Died: April 29, 2020

Irrfan Khan, born Sahabzade Irfan Ali Khan on January 7, 1967, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, was a highly acclaimed actor known for his remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry. Coming from a Pashto-speaking Muslim family, Khan's parents, Begum Khan and Jagirdar Khan, had their roots in the Tonk Hakim family and the Khajuriya village near Tonk district, respectively. His family name, Khan, has its origins in Turkish and Mongol languages, meaning "king" or great leader. With a career spanning over three decades, Khan captivated audiences worldwide with his versatile performances in films such as "The Lunchbox," "Paan Singh Tomar," and "Life of Pi." His immense talent and artistic achievements have solidified him as one of India's most iconic actors.

Early Life and Career

Irrfan Khan earned a scholarship to the National School of Acting in New Delhi in 1984. He started his acting career in the early 1990s, gaining recognition for his performances in television shows and small film roles. In 2001, Khan starred in the critically acclaimed film "The Warrior," which marked his breakthrough and garnered international acclaim.

One of Khan's most impactful roles came in 2011 when he portrayed the titular character in the biographical sports drama "Paan Singh Tomar." His exceptional performance earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor and a Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor, establishing him as a leading figure in Hindi cinema. He continued to deliver outstanding performances in films like "The Lunchbox" (2013), which earned him universal acclaim, and "Life of Pi" (2012), which further showcased his versatility and talent.

Throughout his career, Khan received numerous accolades for his acting prowess. He won several awards, including a National Film Award, Filmfare Awards, and international recognition such as the Asian Film Award for Best Actor.

In his personal life, Khan was married to Sutapa Sikdar in 1995. She is a movie producer, dialogue writer, and screenwriter. The couple has two children, Ayaan Khan and Babil Khan.

Khan was known for his outspoken views on religion and personal religious discovery. His fearless comments on religious matters sparked both support and criticism from various groups.

Irrfan Khan's impact on the entertainment industry was immense. He carved a niche for himself with his remarkable performances and his ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters. His talent and dedication earned him a significant place not only in Bollywood but also in Hollywood. He appeared in several international projects, including "Slumdog Millionaire" (2008), "Jurassic World" (2015), and "Inferno" (2016), showcasing his versatility and transcending boundaries. Khan will always be remembered as an icon and a legendary actor who left an indelible mark on the film industry with his talent and unique approach to storytelling.

Filmography

General:

• What Is Leo
• What Is Hive