The British online newspaper The Independent recently released its list of the 60 best actors of the 21st century, and surprisingly, only one actor from India was included. That actor is the late Irrfan Khan, who secured the 41st spot on the prestigious list. While Bollywood’s iconic stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Salman Khan were absent, Irrfan Khan’s inclusion reflects his immense contribution to global cinema.
Irrfan Khan, who passed away in 2020, was recognized for his remarkable versatility and impactful performances in films such as The Warrior (2001), Maqbool (2003), The Namesake (2006), Lunchbox (2013), Slumdog Millionaire (2008), Haider (2014), and Paan Singh Tomar (2012). His role in these films earned him international acclaim and a lasting legacy.
Born on January 7, 1967, in Rajasthan, Irrfan Khan faced a series of challenges in his career. Despite struggling with health issues, including being diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumor, he continued to deliver memorable performances. He passed away on April 29, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring performances. His death was a tremendous loss to the film industry, as he was a beloved figure who had much more to offer.