Few actors have made the transition from Bollywood to Hollywood as successfully as Irrfan Khan, who went from starring in an Indian soap opera to landing roles in huge blockbusters.
The star, who has died aged 53, was known for a series of nuanced and understated performances delivered across a variety of roles in Hindi, British and American cinema.
He was most familiar to Western audiences for his roles in Slumdog Millionaire, Jurassic World and Life of Pi.
But before then he was a Bollywood superstar, plying his trade in hits such as Haider, Piku and Hindi Medium which wowed millions in his home continent.
The actor has been named by media as one of the finest talents to come out of India, with numerous accolades to back up his place as an international superstar.
The charismatic performer died from a colon infection after being diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumour in 2018.
He died this week after he had been admitted to the intensive care unit of Mumbai’s Kokilaben hospital with a colon infection.
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi led tributes, saying that Khan’s demise was “a loss to the world of cinema and theatre”.
He added: “He will be remembered for his versatile performances across different mediums.
“My thoughts are with his family, friends and admirers. May his soul rest in peace.”
Admirers of the veteran actor’s work and character from across the world took to social media to express their condolences.
Actor Raveena Tandon said that he was a “fantastic co-star, an actor par excellence, and a beautiful human being”.
Whilst actor Konkana Sensharma said Irrfan paved the way for many others.
She said: “Irrfan shone so bright that we all reflected in his glory. Who will we look to for such integrity again?
“The world is a lesser place now. Thank you for having the courage to be yourself and unlocking worlds for us, Irrfan.”
Khan is survived by his wife Sutapa Sikdar and their sons, Babil and Ayan.