It’s been over 15 days since the release of Diljit Dosanjh’s much-anticipated film “Amar Singh Chamkila” on Netflix and the fervor surrounding it refuses to die down. Among the chorus of praises, a heartfelt tribute from none other than the late actor Irrfan Khan’s wife, Sutapa Sikdar, has added a poignant touch to the film’s reception.
In a recent heartfelt Facebook post, Sutapa shared her musings, envisioning a conversation with Irrfan about his potential collaboration with Diljit Dosanjh had he been alive today. She also touched upon the possibility of Irrfan venturing into the world of Malayalam cinema, mentioning Fahadh Faasil and lamented the state of affairs in Bollywood.
In her imagination, she envisioned a conversation with Irrfan. “He’d arrive home in 2024, straight from shooting and settle into petting a cat while engrossed in a book.
Me: You have to see Chamkila.
He wouldn’t immediately look up (never did when he was reading).
Me: He’s so good… I loved his performance.
He: Really? Who?
Me: Oh, come on! Diljit Dosanjh… he’s so unstructured yet all heart… he really connects.
He (now looking at me): Oh, you think he’s that good?
Me: Yes! You two should collaborate; it would be magical. You should portray a Sardar again, like in Quissa, in a story about two brothers…
He: Hmmm… (his phone rings) Hey Dinu (Dinesh Vijayan), Sutapa is saying Diljit Dosanjh is really good…
Me: Not just good, really good…
He: Yeah, let’s do something… Let’s explore Punjabi Sufi poets… I’ll check out Chamkila today, or…
He’d be listening on his headphones as he enters, “Sutupa wrote some poetry… Irshad Kamil, you know… wow, powerful stuff… Have you heard of it? Share it with me…” He and his manager Manpreet sit, and he says, “Get me a Malayali film. I want to work with a director where Fahadh Faasil is involved. I can’t recall the name… but I’m telling you, if Bollywood doesn’t change its ways, etc., I’ll definitely do a Malayali film!” This is how our conversations would mostly go in 2024.
Reflecting on her profound loss on the fourth anniversary of Irrfan’s passing, Sutapa expressed a mix of emotions, from guilt to profound sadness, yet also gratitude for the decades spent together. Her poignant words offered a glimpse into the enduring love and connection she shared with the legendary actor.
Meanwhile, Irrfan’s elder son, Babil Khan, honored his father’s memory in a touching gesture by donating Rs 50,000 towards addressing the water crisis in a Maharashtra village. Alongside his charitable act, Babil shared a heartfelt message reminiscing about his father’s teachings of resilience, kindness, and the importance of fighting for the greater good.
April 29, 2020, marked the end of an era in Bollywood with Irrfan Khan’s untimely demise after a valiant battle with neuroendocrine cancer. His final cinematic outing, Angrezi Medium, directed by Homi Adajania, serves as a poignant reminder of his unparalleled talent and enduring legacy in Indian cinema.
As audiences continue to celebrate Amar Singh Chamkila and cherish the memories of Irrfan Khan, his spirit lives on through the timeless impact he left on the hearts of millions around the world.
Irrfan, who battled neuroendocrine cancer, passed away on April 29, 2020. His final appearance was in “English Medium” alongside Radhika Madan.
