The actor, who was diagnosed with a rare neuroendocrine tumor in 2018, died Wednesday at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, his publicist told Gulf News.
In a statement Khan’s publicist said: “‘I trust, I have surrendered’, these were the some of the many words that Irrfan expressed in a heartfelt note he wrote in 2018 opening up about his fight with cancer. And a man of few words and an actor of silent expressions with his deep eyes and his memorable actions on screen.
“It’s saddening that this day, we have to bring forward the news of him passing away. Irrfan was a strong soul, someone who fought till the very end and always inspired everyone who came close to him. After having been struck by lightning in 2018 with the news of a rare cancer, he took life soon after as it came and he fought the many battles that came with it.
“Surrounded by his love, his family for whom he most cared about, he left for heaven abode, leaving behind truly a legacy of his own. We all pray and hope that he is at peace. And to resonate and part with his words he had said, ‘As if I was tasting life for the first time, the magical side of it.’”
Khan is best known to Western audiences for his roles in Oscar-winning movie Slumdog Millionaire, Life of Pi and Jurassic World.
The actor is survived by his wife Sutapa Devendra Sikdar and their two sons.
Indian film director Shoojit Sircar was among the first people to pay respects to Khan on social media after learning of his death.
Sircar wrote: “My dear friend Irfaan. You fought and fought and fought. I will always be proud of you.. we shall meet again.. condolences to Sutapa and Babil.. you too fought, Sutapa you gave everything possible in this fight. Peace and Om shanti. Irfaan Khan salute.”
Legendary Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan tweeted: “T 3516 - .. just getting news of the passing of Irfaan Khan .. this is a most disturbing and sad news ..
“An incredible talent .. a gracious colleague .. a prolific contributor to the World of Cinema .. left us too soon .. creating a huge vacuum ..
“Prayers and duas”
In 2018, Khan opened up about being diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumor on Twitter.
“The unexpected makes us grow, which is what the past few days have been about,” wrote Khan. “Learning that I have been diagnosed with NeuroEndocrine Tumour as of now has admittedly been difficult, but the love and strength of those around me and that I found within me has brought me to a place of hope.”
