Irrfan Khan, was ‘The Coolest Guy in the Room’ – Tom Hanks
Five years on from his untimely passing on April 29, 2020, the cinematic presence of Irrfan Khan remains remarkably potent, continuing to resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. For those who worked closely with Irrfan, his death created a huge void. He was one of India's top actors known around the world. Cinema doesn't feel the same without his special way of acting. Five years since he passed, actors and directors remember Irrfan. Their touching stories offer insights into his skill, character, and lasting influence, showing why cinema feels different without him.
Colleagues Remember
- Tigmanshu Dhulia (Director & NSD Contemporary): Their association began at the National School of Drama (NSD). Dhulia recalled Irrfan wasn't initially seen as a standout actor but quickly honed his craft, stunning peers with his stage performances. Dhulia believed Irrfan's greatness stemmed from his unique perspective on life, stating, "He understood life and he saw life through a positive lens... He did magic on screen and people believed in that magic."
- Shoojit Sircar (Director, Piku): Though their professional collaboration was limited, Sircar shared a deep personal bond with Irrfan, frequently visiting him during his illness. He described Irrfan as a "genuine man" with a unique "humanism" and a "sparkle in his eyes." Sircar expressed the profound loss, admitting, "It’s tough to survive without him. I miss him in every film now," revealing he had envisioned Irrfan for the lead role in Sardar Udham.
- Naseeruddin Shah (Actor & Mentor Figure): Shah noted the evolution of their relationship; initially, Irrfan looked up to him, but later, Shah found himself admiring the younger actor immensely. In a heartfelt tribute, Shah confessed, "I wished that when I was his age, I had been that good... I don’t think there is another actor I admired as much." He highlighted Irrfan's unique connection with the audience: "He never made an effort to reach you... Irrfan knew the audience would reach out to him."
- Mira Nair (Director, Salaam Bombay!, The Namesake): Nair, who gave Irrfan his film debut (though his role was significantly cut, causing him initial heartbreak) and later a defining role in The Namesake, remembered his vibrant engagement with life. "Irrfan was always alive," she stated, "He was alive to life, whimsy, and friendship... He listened beautifully and harnessed it into his art."
- Tom Hanks (Co-Actor, Inferno): The acclaimed Hollywood actor famously admitted to being uniquely impressed by Irrfan during the filming of Inferno. Hanks recounted feeling like the "coolest guy in the room" until Irrfan arrived, instantly claiming that title. Hanks openly told Irrfan he intended to "steal" his techniques, particularly his quiet intensity and delivery, acknowledging he could only achieve a "pale imitation."
- Vishal Bhardwaj (Director, Maqbool, Haider): Bhardwaj shared a profound connection with Irrfan, staying close during the actor's final days, receiving recordings of Irrfan singing. The filmmaker expressed deep personal devastation at his passing, writing, "It feels as if I am torn into two parts. A part of me has died with him." He reiterated the sentiment of loss, stating, "Every film I see, I make... I miss Irrfan."
The collective memories shared by Irrfan Khan's collaborators paint a consistent portrait of an actor unlike any other. Five years since he passed away, people he worked with remember more than just his amazing talent. They recall his quiet focus, deep understanding, and easy way of connecting with audiences. They also remember his kindness, unique view on life, and deep humanity. From Tigmanshu Dhulia witnessing his early evolution to Tom Hanks feeling uniquely intimidated by his presence, the sentiment echoes: Irrfan Khan was a rare artist whose absence continues to be deeply felt, leaving an irreplaceable void in the world of cinema. His legacy, however, continues through his performances.
