Mumbai: Entire nation is shocked by the demise of renowned actor Padma Shri Irrfan Khan, who breathed his last on Wednesday, April 29 owing to health issues.
Khan, who won over millions of fans with his roles in numerous international and Indian films, succumbed to his illness during treatment at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital with a colon infection on Wednesday.
Politcians, actors and sports personalities, along with scores of Irrfan fans have condoeld the death of the actor, who redefined cinemas in his own way.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the nation has lost an exceptional actor and a kind soul.
“Anguished over the sad news of Irrfan Khan’s demise. He was a versatile actor, who’s art had earned global fame and recognition,” Shah tweeted.
He said that Irfan was an “asset” to the film industry and that “in him, the nation has lost an exceptional actor and a kind soul”.
“My condolences to his family and followers.”
Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray led the state in paying rich tributes to the renowned actor who was a master craftsman both on stage, TV and the silverscreen.
“Irrfan Khan was a talented actor who was sensitive to the concerns of society. Known for his versatility, he immortalised various roles in films and television serials with his passionate acting. His demise is a loss to the world of Hindi cinema,” Governor Koshyari said.
“An extremely talented, hardworking and versatile actor, Irrfan Khan was also a good human being. His journey from Bollywood to Hollywood is an inspiration for upcoming actors. Despite being afflicted by cancer, he accepted the reality and continued to work. My heartfelt condolences,” Thackeray said.
Expressing shock over the sudden demise of the actor, State Congress President and Minister Balasaheb Thorat said “Irrfan Khan will always be remembered as an actor extraordinaire and a true fighter”.
Nationalist Congress Party’s National Spokesperson and Minister Nawab Malik said he was “extremely saddened and shaken to hear of the demise of Irrfan Khan” and offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
“This is really sad, a loss for the Indian film industry,” Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said in a tweet.
NCP MP Supriya Sule said Irrfan Khan will always be cherished as one of the finest actors of Indian cinema. “After great struggles, he made his mark on the Indian and world cinemaa In his death, we have lost a fine artiste,” Sule said.
From the TV serial “Chandrakanta” in the 1990s to “Angrezi Medium” in 2020, the actor enthralled audiences for 30 years.
Bharatiya Janata Party Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis said Irrfan Khan was not just a hardworking actor, but he was also a good cricketer though he couldn’t pursue the game due to lack of funds.
“His TV and film presence is unparalleled and has been giving confidence and motivation to many. My humble tributes to Irrfan, deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans across the globe,” former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said.
India’s sports stars on Wednesday came together to pay homage to late actor Irrfan Khan.
“Sad to hear the news of #IrrfanKhan passing away. He was one of my favorites & I’ve watched almost all his films, the last one being Angrezi Medium. Acting came so effortlessly to him, he was just terrific. May his soul Rest In Peace. Condolences to his loved ones,” tweeted cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.
Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli tweeted: “Saddened to hear about the passing of Irrfan Khan. What a phenomenal talent and dearly touched everyone’s heart with his versatility. May god give peace to his soul”
“Khan sahab, you were brilliant at what you did and that will always live on. Thank you for bringing your art to us the way you did. Strength to those grieving,” said Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri.
“A great actor and a great talent. Heartfelt Condolences to his family and well – wishers #IrfanKhan,” said former India batsman Virender Sehwag.
“Saddened to hear the passing away of #IrfanKhan. Condolences to the entire family. An actor of great caliber! You will be cherished by us until eternity. RIP,” tweeted fast bowler Mohammed Shami.
Badminton star Saina Nehwal tweeted a picture of herself and Irrfan. “With the legend during one ad shoot … great memories sir #RIPIrrfanKhan,” she said.
The actor has been ailing ever since he was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour a while back, and has been under medical attention for the same. He even went abroad for treatment.
