Irrfan Khan Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements

Introduction

Irrfan Khan was one of the most extraordinary and internationally acclaimed actors India has ever produced. Known for his natural acting style, soulful screen presence, and the ability to seamlessly blend into any role, he left behind an unforgettable legacy in both Indian and global cinema. With iconic performances in Maqbool, The Lunchbox, Piku, Hindi Medium, Slumdog Millionaire, Life of Pi, and Jurassic World, Irrfan proved that true artistry transcends borders.

Personal Information

• Full Name: Sahabzade Irfan Ali Khan
• Date of Birth: 7 January 1967
• Birthplace: Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
• Nationality: Indian
• Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
• Died: 29 April 2020, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Physical Appearance

• Height: 6 feet (183 cm)
• Weight: Approx. 75 kg
• Hair Color: Black (later salt & pepper)
• Eye Color: Dark Brown

Early Life & Family Background

Irrfan Khan was born into a Muslim Pathan family in Jaipur. His father ran a tire business, and his mother was a homemaker. Though his family wanted him to join the family business, Irrfan’s interest in storytelling and performance led him towards acting.

Education Journey

• Completed his schooling in Jaipur.
• Studied for a Master’s degree in Arts before pursuing theatre.
• Earned a scholarship to the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, where he trained in acting.

Film Debut & Early Career

• Film Debut: Salaam Bombay! (1988), directed by Mira Nair.
• Spent years doing supporting roles in films and television serials (Chanakya, Bharat Ek Khoj, Banegi Apni Baat).
• Breakthrough came with Vishal Bhardwaj’s Maqbool (2003), where he played Macbeth in an Indian adaptation.

Rise to Stardom

• Maqbool (2003) – A landmark performance that earned him critical acclaim.
• Life in a… Metro (2007) – Displayed his versatility in an ensemble cast.
• The Namesake (2006) – A powerful performance in Mira Nair’s cross-cultural drama.
• Slumdog Millionaire (2008) – Contributed to the Oscar-winning film.
• The Lunchbox (2013) – Internationally celebrated film, considered one of his finest performances.
• Piku (2015) – Showcased his lighter, charming side.
• Hindi Medium (2017) – Commercial hit, addressing India’s education system.

Bollywood Journey & Iconic Films

• Salaam Bombay! (1988)
• Maqbool (2003)
• The Namesake (2006)
• Life in a… Metro (2007)
• Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
• Paan Singh Tomar (2012) – National Award-winning role.
• The Lunchbox (2013)
• Piku (2015)
• Talvar (2015)
• Hindi Medium (2017)
• Angrezi Medium (2020) – His final film.

Hollywood & International Career

Irrfan Khan built a unique global reputation:

• The Namesake (2006)
• Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
• Life of Pi (2012)
• The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
• Jurassic World (2015)
• Inferno (2016)

Awards & Achievements

• National Film Award (2012): Best Actor for Paan Singh Tomar.
• Filmfare Awards: Multiple wins across Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, and Critics’ Awards.
• Padma Shri (2011): India’s fourth-highest civilian honor.
• International recognition for The Lunchbox and Slumdog Millionaire.

Personal Life

Irrfan married writer and fellow NSD graduate Sutapa Sikdar in 1995. The couple had two sons, Babil and Ayaan. His elder son, Babil Khan, is now an actor in Hindi cinema.

Illness & Death

In March 2018, Irrfan revealed he had been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer – neuroendocrine tumor. He underwent treatment in London and returned to act in Angrezi Medium (2020). Sadly, he passed away on 29 April 2020 at the age of 53, leaving the film industry and fans worldwide in grief.

Legacy & Influence

Irrfan Khan is remembered as an actor who redefined Indian cinema. His authenticity, understated performances, and ability to connect with audiences worldwide made him a global ambassador of Indian acting talent. He continues to inspire actors and filmmakers with his philosophy that cinema is about truth, not glamour.

FAQs

Q1: What was Irrfan Khan’s full name?
A: Sahabzade Irfan Ali Khan.

Q2: Which was his debut film?
A: Salaam Bombay! (1988).

Q3: Which role won him the National Award?
A: Paan Singh Tomar (2012).

Q4: Who was Irrfan Khan’s wife?
A: Sutapa Sikdar.

Q5: What was his last film?
A: Angrezi Medium (2020).