Actor Irrfan Khan died at age of 53 on Wednesday in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where he was being treated for a colon infection. A statement released by his family said that Mr Khan spent his final hours “surrounded by his love, his family for whom he most cared about.” Just hours ago, the actor’s spokesperson said in a statement that Mr Khan was “still fighting the battle.” The Piku star, one of Indian cinema’s most respected thespians, battled a tumour for several months and returned to Mumbai some months ago after being treated in London. Irrfan Khan is survived by his wife Sutapa and two sons. Yesterday, his spokesperson confirmed that he had been taken to the intensive care unit and later, dismissed rumours that Irrfan Khan had died.
As news of Irrfan Khan’s hospitalisation spread on Tuesday evening, the actor’s spokesperson released this statement: “Yes, it is true that Irrfan Khan is admitted to ICU at Kokilaben in Mumbai because of a colon infection. We would keep everyone updated. He is under doctor’s observation. His strength and courage have helped him battle and fight so far and we are sure with his tremendous willpower and prayers of his well wishers, he will recover soon.” Irrfan’s wife Sutapa Sikdar and his sons Babil and Ayan Khan were also reportedly at the hospital.
On Wednesday, a fresh statement was released warning against premature reports of Mr Khan’s death. It’s really disappointing to know that there are extreme assumptions being made about Irrfan’s health. “While we are truly appreciative that people are concerned, it’s disheartening to see some sources spread extreme rumours and creating panic. Irrfan is a strong person and is still fighting the battle. We really request you to not fall for rumours and not partake in these conversations which are fictional,” the actor’s spokesperson said.
Irrfan Khan was diagnosed with an neuroendocrine tumour in March 2018, soon after which he flew to London for treatment. He returned to India in February 2019 to shoot Angrezi Medium and flew back to London after a brief stay. The actor returned to India in September last year after surgery and treatment in London.
