The past decade has witnessed the death of many beloved artists of 'my time and slightly before that', if I may; musicians, sportsmen... have passed away back to back. My friends and colleagues who closely followed their work mourned their loss. However, since I didn't follow their work, it didn't affect me as much as it did them.
Today, we lost Irfan Khan, a jolly human being and veteran, versatile actor. When my friend shared this news, it really hit me. I even found myself tearing up. What was different this time? I watched his movies and liked his performances. It got me thinking, this is what artists leave behind when they cross over; this is their legacy.
When an artist dies, those who follow his or her art are affected in the same way as they would be if they were to lose someone they know personally. That's the power of art, it resonates with people despite the obvious distance; it speaks to people, hurts them, makes them happy; angers them...it stirs all kinds of emotion within them. Art is alive; it's a living entity that continues to inpsire and empower long after it has been created. It never dies. Now, if this doesnt motivate us to create more art, I don't know what will.
Irfan Khan had a guy-next-door personality, which spilled over to the characters he played. Even if he was a 'star', he was one of us and that's what made his movies and work relatable. Whether it was the good hearted but unpolished, even low-key crass, Monty from Life in a Metro or the intelligent, no-nonsense officer, Ashvin Kumar from Talvar, Irfan Khan's work always bridged the gap between his audience and his stardom.
He will be missed but those who truly love him will continue to enjoy the art he leaves behind. In fact, in the coming days, YouTube will see a hike in searches for his movies and interviews. I pray that God gives his family the strength to bear this loss. May his soul rest in peace.
