Irrfan Khan's death anniversary (Courtesy: irrfan)
It has been two years since Irrfan Khan's tragic death but like all great artists, the actor's legacy lives on. On April 29, 2020, Irrfan Khan died following a long battle with cancer. So in love were fans with Irrfan Khan's countless performances that the death felt like a personal loss to many. Irrespective of the genre, the actor owned each role he chose to portray. Irrfan Khan played a bandit with the same flair as he did a lonely man. His roles were infused with an honesty that was arresting if not unsettling, making him a thespian for the ages.
On Irrfan Khan's second death anniversary, we take a look at five of his best performances that you can watch on OTT platforms to celebrate the superstar.
1. Maqbool - Disney + Hotstar
It is not surprising that one of Irrfan Khan's best performances is an adaptation of Shakespeare's Macbeth by master filmmaker Vishal Bharadwaj. The actor plays the titular role in the film that features him alongside other veterans such as Pankaj Kapur and Tabu. Irrfan Khan's role as a man who is caught in a web of greed, love, power, lust and conscience is a masterclass in acting.
2. The Lunchbox – Netflix
The Lunchbox is an extraordinary love story of ordinary people, who have for long lived in a world bereft of affection and compassion. The lead couple falls in love over several lunchboxes, prepared by one and relished by the other. Irrfan Khan's Saajan is vulnerable, righteous and hopeful all at once. The film is an example of his unparalleled likeability and grace.
3. Paan Singh Tomar – Netflix
Paan Singh Tomar is a heart-wrenching biography of the eponymous national steeplechase champion who turns into a dacoit due to circumstances. As Tomar, Irrfan Khan conveyed the angst of a hero reduced to a villain by the failings of the system. For his terrific performance in the film, Irrfan Khan also won a National Film Award.
4. Qissa – Amazon Prime Video
Irrfan Khan's Qissa will leave you feeling uncomfortable, heartbroken and responsible. The film is based on the subjects of gender identity, gender discrimination and the roles of family and society. As the unrelenting patriarch Umber Singh, Irrfan Khan evokes sympathy and anger in the audience, all at once.
5. Piku – Sony Liv
Piku proves that Irrfan Khan need not be at the front and centre of a show to make it his own. In this heartwarming tale of father-daughter bond, Irrfan Khan's Rana is the effortless catalyst, winning over everyone's heart with his charm and candour.
Tell us which of these movies you would like to revisit to celebrate the legacy of Irrfan Khan.