Irrfan Khan was one of India's finest actors, whose body of work spanned both Bollywood and Hollywood.

Known for his effortless acting style and ability to bring complex characters to life, Irrfan's films left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

His filmography reflects a deep understanding of human emotions, often choosing roles that broke away from mainstream cinema tropes. Here's a look at some of his most iconic films.

Breakthrough Roles in Bollywood

Maqbool (2003): Irrfan's portrayal of Maqbool, an adaptation of Shakespeare's Macbeth, established him as a powerful actor. His performance as a conflicted underworld don was filled with emotional intensity, setting the stage for his long-lasting impact in Bollywood.

The Lunchbox (2013): In this heartwarming film, Irrfan plays Saajan Fernandes, a lonely office worker who forms an unusual bond through letters exchanged with a housewife. The subtlety in his acting and the quiet melancholy he brought to his character made this one of his most celebrated performances.

Piku (2015): Irrfan's role as Rana Chaudhary, a cab driver caught between the quirky dynamics of a father-daughter duo, was lauded for its charm and comic timing. His chemistry with Deepika Padukone and Amitabh Bachchan created memorable moments in this road-trip film.

Hindi Medium (2017): This satirical comedy saw Irrfan playing Raj Batra, a father trying to get his daughter into an elite school. The film dealt with the social pressures surrounding education in India, and Irrfan's effortless humor combined with emotional depth made this performance unforgettable.

International Success in Hollywood

Slumdog Millionaire (2008): Irrfan had a significant role in the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire, playing a police inspector who interrogates the lead character. His performance added gravitas to the movie, which brought Indian cinema to global attention.

Life of Pi (2012): In this visually stunning adaptation of the novel by Yann Martel, Irrfan played the older Pi Patel, narrating his survival story. His soulful performance was the emotional core of the film, resonating deeply with audiences.

Jurassic World (2015): As Simon Masrani, the billionaire owner of the dinosaur park in Jurassic World, Irrfan brought a sense of calm authority to a role in one of the biggest franchises in Hollywood.

The Namesake (2006): Directed by Mira Nair, The Namesake was a deeply personal and emotional story of identity, family, and immigration. Irrfan's portrayal of Ashoke Ganguli was filled with warmth and vulnerability, solidifying his reputation as an actor capable of touching hearts across cultures.

Other Noteworthy Bollywood Performances

Pan Singh Tomar (2012): In this biographical film, Irrfan played the real-life character of Pan Singh Tomar, an athlete turned rebel. His dedication to the role earned him a National Award and the film was praised for its honest depiction of rural India and its struggles.

Talvar (2015): Irrfan portrayed an investigative officer in this crime drama based on the real-life Aarushi Talwar murder case. His portrayal of the complex legal and emotional layers in the investigation was riveting and intense.

Angrezi Medium (2020): As his last release before his untimely death, Angrezi Medium saw Irrfan once again in a fatherly role, doing everything he could to fulfill his daughter's dreams. The film was a bittersweet reminder of his immense talent.

Irrfan Khan's filmography is a testament to his versatility, grace, and innate ability to connect with audiences across genres and cultures. Whether playing complex characters in Bollywood dramas or making his mark in Hollywood blockbusters, his nuanced performances earned him a place among the greats. His unique approach to acting, where he effortlessly balanced emotion and restraint, continues to inspire actors and filmmakers worldwide.

Irrfan's untimely death in 2020 left a void in the world of cinema, but his legacy lives on through the films that continue to move, entertain, and challenge audiences everywhere.