Shoojit Sircar remembers Irrfan Khan on 5th Death Anniversary, talks about becoming a guardian to Babil Khan

Though the two worked together on just one film, the much-loved Piku, which is set for a special re-release in theatres on May 9, their friendship extended far beyond the sets.

On April 29, filmmaker Shoojit Sircar commemorated the fifth death anniversary of his dear friend and celebrated actor Irrfan Khan by sharing a deeply emotional tribute. In his heartfelt note, Sircar fondly recalled their many conversations that delved into themes of spiritualism and science—topics that often defined the depth of their bond.

Though the two worked together on just one film, the much-loved Piku, which is set for a special re-release in theatres on May 9, their friendship extended far beyond the sets. Irrfan, widely regarded as one of India's finest acting talents, passed away on April 29, 2020, at the age of 54 after a courageous fight against a rare cancer. Despite their limited collaborations, Sircar and Khan shared a profound connection that endured until the actor's untimely demise.

Shoojit Sircar wrote on Instagram that he still misses Irrfan Khan a lot and that he has become close to the late actor's family over the years, maintaining the relationship through shared memories and cherished connections. "Friend, wherever you are, I know you’re doing well and have probably made many new friends there. I’m sure people have fallen in love with your charm, as we all have. Here, I’m doing fine. But there’s one thing you might not be aware of Irfaan – just how much you’re loved and missed here. You’d be surprised," his post read.

Sircar said he misses their "jhal muri sessions and the laughter" . "I cherish those moments. Remember our long conversations about spiritualism and science when you were in London? Those talks were incredibly deep. I’ve got the books you recommended, and I often think about our discussions on life and death. Your smile and those mystical eyes of yours are etched in my memory. It’s not easy living every day without you; there’s a huge vacuum," he continued.

Sircar went on to write that Khan has become a "bit of a guardian" to Babil and that both of his sons, Ayan and Babil, are doing well in life. "Don’t worry, I’m looking out for him. Sutapa and I talk often. Me and Ronnie, we’ve just finished a film project with Babil. He’s growing into a fine artist, slowly carving his own space in the industry. I’m sure he’s on the right path, just like you always envisioned,” he concluded his post.

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In 2025, Shoojit Sircar's heartwarming story Piku, which examines the subtleties of a father-daughter bond, will commemorate its tenth anniversary. Irrfan Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone are among the film's outstanding cast members. Its relatable narrative and emotional depth have helped it to remain popular with viewers.

Irrfan Khan breathed his last on April 29, 2020, at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital following a long battle with a rare neuroendocrine tumor. He had initially sought treatment in the UK before returning to India, where his health deteriorated and he was eventually hospitalized.