Bollywood film Angrezi Medium marked its fifth anniversary since its release in 2020. The movie, which showcased a powerful narrative about a father’s love for his daughter and his willingness to go to great lengths to ensure her future, was one of the last major films to feature the legendary actor Irrfan Khan before his untimely death in April 2020. To commemorate this special day, actress Radhikka Madan, who starred alongside Irrfan in the film, shared an emotional tribute, remembering the immense impact the actor had on her life and career.
The film was a sequel to the hit Hindi Medium (2017) and saw Irrfan reprise his role as the lovable and doting father, Champak Bansal. His portrayal of a father who embarks on a journey to London to fulfill his daughter’s dreams struck a chord with audiences, drawing them into the story’s emotional depth. Radhikka Madan, who played his daughter, Tarika, alongside him, was introduced as an ambitious young girl with aspirations of studying abroad. Her chemistry with Irrfan Khan brought an authentic sense of warmth and emotional resonance to the film.
In a heartfelt social media post marking the film’s fifth anniversary, Radhikka expressed her admiration and love for the late actor. She shared a throwback picture from the movie’s set, where the two were captured sharing a light-hearted moment. The photo was accompanied by a note in which Radhikka reflected on the invaluable lessons she learned from working alongside one of the finest actors in Indian cinema. She described Irrfan as not just a colleague but also a mentor who guided her through her journey in the film industry.
“Irrfan sir was a rare talent. He was the kind of actor who could convey so much with just a single look. He made acting seem so effortless, yet it was filled with so much depth,” Radhikka wrote in her post. “Working with him in Angrezi Medium was an experience I will cherish forever. His dedication, discipline, and humility were an inspiration to all of us on set.”
Radhikka went on to recall her first meeting with Irrfan and how he made her feel comfortable despite the pressure of working with a seasoned actor. “I was nervous, as it was my first time working with someone of his caliber. But Irrfan sir had a way of making everyone feel at ease. He would always tell me to ‘just be’ and not overthink things,” she shared. “His approach to acting was so natural that it made me realize the importance of being in the moment, of allowing emotions to come through organically.”
The actress also reminisced about the camaraderie and bond that they shared during the film’s shoot. The film’s narrative required both actors to traverse an emotional journey, and their connection was central to making their father-daughter relationship believable and impactful. Radhikka recalled how the cast and crew would often gather after shooting, and despite the tough days, Irrfan’s sense of humor and spirit never failed to lift the mood.
“Even on the most intense days of shooting, he would crack jokes to make everyone laugh. He had a way of lightening up the atmosphere. That’s one of the things I miss the most – his infectious laughter,” Radhikka said.
Beyond their personal bond, Radhikka acknowledged the artistic brilliance of Irrfan Khan. She reflected on his unmatched ability to bring authenticity to every role he played, whether it was in mainstream Bollywood cinema or in international projects. “He didn’t just act; he lived the role. Whether it was his small yet powerful moments in Life of Pi or his heartwarming performance in Piku, he always made you believe in his characters,” she added.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the cast of Angrezi Medium, including Radhikka, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and others, participated in a special tribute to the late actor. A video was shared on social media where the team expressed their love and gratitude for Irrfan and shared their favorite memories of working with him. The tribute was emotional, with many members of the team breaking into tears as they talked about how deeply they were affected by his untimely passing.
Radhikka, who had already established herself as a promising young actress in the industry, considered the time spent working with Irrfan to be one of the most transformative moments in her career. “Before Angrezi Medium, I was still finding my footing in the industry. But working with someone like Irrfan sir opened my eyes to the importance of discipline and honesty in acting,” she shared in a recent interview. “He taught me that acting is not about performing for the camera; it’s about connecting with your co-stars and the audience. He was always so present, so grounded, that every scene felt like a new learning experience.”
The movie, which was helmed by director Homi Adajania, not only showcased Irrfan’s brilliance but also focused on themes of family, sacrifice, and determination. It resonated deeply with audiences, particularly those who had faced challenges in pursuing their dreams. However, shortly after the film’s release, the country went into lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Irrfan’s health took a severe turn. He passed away just weeks later, leaving a gaping hole in the film industry and the hearts of millions of fans.
Radhikka’s tribute also highlighted how the film became a bittersweet memory for everyone involved, given the tragic events that followed. “It’s hard to believe that it’s been five years since we shot the film,” she reflected. “When I look back, Angrezi Medium feels like a beautiful gift, a last treasure that we were fortunate enough to share with the world. It was his final performance that touched so many hearts, and I will always be proud to have been a part of that journey.”
As the film continues to be celebrated five years later, Radhikka Madan’s poignant tribute serves as a reminder of the deep impact that Irrfan Khan had on everyone who worked with him. It is a reminder of his legacy that continues to live on through his films, his characters, and the lasting influence he had on the people around him. Radhikka’s heartfelt words about her late co-star are a testament to the enduring love and respect she holds for him, not just as an actor but as a mentor and a friend.