Babil on Irrfan Khan: His Legacy Lives Through His Art
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Synopsis
On April 17, Babil Khan reflected on the lasting legacy of his father, Irrfan Khan, stating that his father's profound performances keep him alive in spirit. He emphasized the importance of authenticity over imitation in honoring his father's memory.
Key Takeaways
- Babil highlights the deep love fans had for Irrfan Khan.
- He believes that love can make a person immortal.
- Babil regrets missing opportunities to learn from his father.
- He emphasizes authenticity over imitation in his own work.
- Babil aims to carry forward his father's legacy by being true to himself.
Mumbai, April 17 (NationPress) Actor Babil Khan shared his thoughts on the enduring legacy of his late father, the iconic Irrfan Khan. He expressed that although his 'baba' is no longer present, his remarkable performances continue to resonate on screens worldwide.
Babil, who was featured on the podcast hosted by Bharti Singh and Harssh Limbachiyaa, reflected on his father's profound influence and legacy.
During the conversation, Babil stated: “The affection you had for him is truly invaluable. I resonate with that feeling. Being a fan is one thing, but the bond you shared with him—similar to what Ayaan and I feel—instills a sense of duty within us. It transcends mere fandom. That love can indeed render a person eternal.”
“Although Baba is not physically here today, he remains present through his remarkable body of work,” Babil emphasized.
Babil recounted how the world may perceive Irrfan Khan as a monumental figure or even godlike in his artistry, but to him, he was simply his Baba.
“We often ponder, what is this? I remember him bathing. He emerged wrapped in a towel. He was an incredible individual. The way others viewed him was something I didn’t fully grasp until he was gone. After his passing, I was able to step back and see him differently. When I viewed him from afar, detached from my personal relationship, I realized I should have focused on learning rather than playing FIFA.”
He reminisced about the time when the esteemed actor approached him, asking Babil to engage in “some scene work.”
“However, I was busy playing FIFA. I replied, I'm playing FIFA. I'll be there shortly. That day is one I regret deeply.”
When asked if he watches his father's films now, Babil replied: “Yes. However, I avoid imitating them because I fear becoming stagnant. There’s a tendency for people to expect me to mirror my father’s style. They wish for me to revive his essence.”
“Yet, if they were still with us, they’d likely be quite displeased if I attempted to replicate them or occupy their space. Not replace, but seek to fulfill their legacy. They instilled in me the importance of being true to oneself. I am committed to being my authentic self.”
Babil concluded: “Whatever occurs in my journey, staying true to who I am is essential for the legacy to progress. If I focus on fitting into their shoes, who will step into mine?”
Irrfan Khan passed away at the age of 53 in April 2020 after a battle with neuroendocrine tumor, a diagnosis he received in 2018.
