Irrfan Khan’s death anniversary: Paan Singh Tomar to Hindi Medium, remembering his most versatile performances

As we remember Irrfan Khan, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of his most remarkable performances onscreen

Four years ago today, our country lost one of the biggest gems of the Indian film industry when Irrfan Khan breathed his last. His untimely death left a vacuum in the lives of his loved ones and his fans. But the actor’s legacy continues to live on through his incredible work onscreen. Today, let’s revisit some of his most versatile performances, which made a mark in the industry and our hearts.

Haasil (2003)

A good actor is one who can make the audience despise them when they step into the shoes of a villain onscreen, convincing us of their versatility. At a time when the country was gushing over the likes of Kal Ho Naa Ho and Koi... Mil Gaya, Irrfan decided to impress fans with his performance as Haasil’s antagonist Ranvijay Singh, a student leader involved in dirty student politics.

Paan Singh Tomar (2012)

The film which not only garnered him a national award but also became a major milestone in the actor’s career. Irrfan’s portrayal of an athlete and soldier-turned-rebel Paan Singh Tomar left us glued to the screen, unable to take our eyes off him. His performance was groundbreaking and proved that he’s a chameleon, who could bring any character alive onscreen

The Lunchbox (2013)

A serious and lonely man who wants to be left alone ends up smiling to himself on opening a lunchbox meant for someone else. Irrfan as Saajan was simple, sweet and made us root for him and Ila, played by Nimrat Kaur. His performance and the storyline made a permanent place in our hearts

Hindi Medium (2017)

Parents always want the best for their children, may it be a comfortable lifestyle or education. In Hindi Medium, Irrfan played the role of a father who was willing to change his living standards time and again just to get his daughter admission into a good school.