Irrfan Khan Was in a Lot of Pain During Angrezi Medium Shoot: Insights from the Designer

Irrfan Khan remains one of the most revered actors in Indian cinema. His performances were powerful, nuanced, and unforgettable. But behind the scenes of his final film, Angrezi Medium, a touching and emotional story has recently resurfaced — revealing just how much Irrfan Khan endured during the movie’s shoot. New accounts from the film’s costume designer, Smriti Chauhan, shed light on the actor’s physical struggles and unwavering dedication to his craft.

In this article, we dive deep into what really happened on set, how his health affected the production, and why his legacy continues to inspire millions.

Who Was Irrfan Khan?

Irrfan Khan was a legendary Indian actor known for his remarkable range of roles in both Bollywood and Hollywood.

He began his career in television, quickly moving to film with notable early roles. Over the years, he delivered critically acclaimed performances in The Lunchbox, Piku, Hindi Medium, and international hits like Life of Pi, The Amazing Spider-Man, and Inferno. Irrfan’s ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety made him a unique presence on screen.

In 2018, he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer — a neuroendocrine tumour — which he courageously fought while still working on films. Despite his illness, he remained passionate about acting until the very end.

Angrezi Medium: His Final Film

A Bit About the Film

Angrezi Medium (2020) is a heartfelt comedy-drama directed by Homi Adajania. The story focuses on the bond between a father and his daughter, weaving love, humor, and emotional depth. It also marked Irrfan Khan’s last performance, released shortly before his untimely passing in April 2020.

The film stars Irrfan alongside Radhika Madan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Deepak Dobriyal, and Ranvir Shorey. While audiences appreciated the film’s warmth, few knew how challenging the shoot was for Irrfan due to his deteriorating health.

What the Designer Revealed: Irrfan’s Pain on Set

Physical Struggles Behind the Camera

Recently, costume designer Smriti Chauhan shared deeply personal memories from working with Irrfan Khan on the set of Angrezi Medium. According to her, Irrfan was in a significant amount of physical discomfort throughout the shoot

Smriti mentioned that he was in a lot of pain during the filming and that his health visibly declined over time.

Despite trying to stay composed, there were noticeable signs that his body was weakening. He reportedly felt very cold during the shoot and even asked Smriti to procure special warmers from a brand in London to help him stay comfortable.

Shrinking Frame and Costume Adjustments

One of the most striking details Smriti revealed was how Irrfan’s body was “shrinking” as the shoot progressed — a sign of his declining condition.

To maintain continuity on screen, the costume team had to add extra padding to his outfits, even in summer scenes where minimal clothing was expected. This padding was crucial to help him look more consistent and comfortable in his role.

Sometimes, additional layers were needed even in warm weather, demonstrating how fragile his health had become.

Breaks and Cancelled Shoot Days

Smriti also shared that there were days when Irrfan simply couldn’t make it to the set due to pain and exhaustion.

This reveals not only the physical toll his illness took on him but also how determined he was to fulfill his commitments despite the challenges.

There were moments when the crew had to halt filming because his body couldn’t cope with the filming schedule, and he needed rest

Irrfan’s Passion and Dedication

More Than Just an Actor

One of the most profound parts of Smriti’s recollection was how Irrfan viewed his work even during those difficult days. She suggested that he was so committed to his craft that he wanted to keep acting despite his severe health issues.

She believed that acting wasn’t just his job — it was his life. Even in pain, he kept going, driven by passion and love for storytelling.

This idea that he wanted to continue working “doing what he loved” even in his final days adds a deeply emotional layer to his legacy.

The Legacy of Irrfan Khan

A Life Remembered

Irrfan Khan passed away in April 2020 after a long battle with cancer. His death was met with profound sadness worldwide. His contributions to cinema left a lasting impact, and his performances continue to inspire actors and audiences alike.

Angrezi Medium stands as a testament to his talent and resilience — a film that not only entertained but also became a part of his personal journey.

Inspiration for Generations

Irrfan’s determination to work through pain and illness reflects his belief that creativity and passion can transcend even the toughest challenges. His perseverance and grace under pressure continue to motivate aspiring actors and artists around the world.

Final Thoughts

The revelations from Angrezi Medium’s costume designer offer a rare and poignant glimpse into the final days of a cinematic legend. Irrfan Khan’s courage, humility, and unbreakable spirit shine through these memories, reminding us why he was — and remains — such an unforgettable presence in film.

Through his work and dedication, he showed that true artistry isn’t just about talent — it’s about heart. Whether on screen or behind the scenes, his legacy continues to live on in the hearts of millions.

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