Irrfan Khan was an actor whose performances transcended geographical and linguistic barriers. He has been lauded by everyone and now, mourned across the country as well. The actor passed away earlier today.
Despite acting in only one South Indian film (Mahesh Babu's Sainikudu in 2006), Irrfan won hearts through his iconic roles in numerous films such as The Lunchbox, Piku, Paan Singh Tomar and Talvar.
Irrfan was highly respected by South Indian actors and technicians and was seen as an inspiration. His untimely demise has left the entire country shaken and multiple film personalities from Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam film industries have taken to Twitter to express their shock and grief.
Kamal Haasan called Irrfan one of the finest actors and said he deserved more time on earth.
Too soon to leave @irrfank Ji. Your work always left me in awe. You’re one of the finest actors I know, I wish you stayed longer. You deserved more time. Strength to the family at this time.
Dulquer Salmaan, who made his Bollywood debut alongside Irrfan in Karwaan, said that the late actor always made his co-stars feel like at home, despite being an international movie star and 'living legend'.
Puneeth Rajkumar said one cannot easily get over the films of Irrfan and reiterated that he was one of the finest actors in the country.
@irrfank One of the finest actors, one cannot get over some of his great films like Lunchbox, Life of Pi. May his soul RIP.
Dhanush said he was heartbroken on hearing the news and expressed his condolences.
Heartbroken by the news, what a great talent and a wonderful human being we have lost. I will always remember his kind words to me. There is a better place and I know he is there. My deepest condolences to his family and dear ones. May his soul rest in peace
Mahesh Babu tweeted saying that he is deeply saddened and called his Sainikudu co-star 'a brilliant actor'.
Deeply saddened by the news of #IrrfanKhan's untimely demise. A brilliant actor gone too soon. He will be truly missed... My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. RIP
Nivin Pauly conveyed his condolences via his Twitter handle and said India will miss such a legend.
Trisha, who had acted along with Irrfan in Sainikudu, said his work, talent and dignity had always amazed her.
Woke up to more tragedy and shock today Rip #IrrfanKhan
I feel happy to have shared screen space with you.Your body of work,talent and dignity never failed to amaze https://t.co/uJpHUyueBv and strength to your family.
Jaggesh called Irrfan one of the best actors Indian cinema has ever produced and called himself the greatest fan of the actor.
Prithviraj Sukumaran said that Irrfan had a lot more to give to Indian cinema as a performer.