This actor worked as an AC mechanic in Mumbai and even got to visit Rajesh Khanna's house and got star-struck.
There is no shortage of celebrities' stories of rags to riches. Many superstars like Rajinikanth, Akshay Kumar, and Shah Rukh Khan have shared their stories of humble beginnings working as bus conductors, waiters, chefs, or teaching students to make their livings before hitting it big in the cinema.
One such story is of a legendary actor who worked as an AC mechanic and later became the most talented and praised celebrity in not just Bollywood but Hollywood as well. He left a mark on the film industry with his devotion to his craft that no one can replicate. His versatility and poise are still remembered even after he is gone. Yes, we are talking about Irrfan Khan.
Also Read: Rajinikanth to Amrish Puri: Celebs who left govt jobs for acting
Irrfan Khan was born on January 7, 1967, in Tonk, Rajasthan. He always gravitated towards acting due to his maternal uncle's theatre background. After completing his MA in Jaipur, Irrfan moved out to study acting and got into NSD.
The star once revealed in an interview about his odd jobs before getting roles. He said he used to teach students in Jaipur with Rs 25 per student as fees. After coming to Mumbai, he started working as an AC mechanic to make ends meet and even got the chance to visit Rajesh Khanna's house. He could not help but get star-struck.
Irrfan got his first acting gig in Mira Nair's Salaam Bombay! He had a minor role as a letter writer in the film, which was later reduced in the final cut. After that, he did several television shows such as Kahkashan, Chanakya, Sara Jahan Humara, Banegi Apni Baat, and AnooGoonj on Doordarshan. He bagged his first lead role in a film named Rog, and after that, his film journey took off.
He starred in several hits, such as Hindi Medium, Piku, and The Lunchbox. The actor also received the National Award for his stunning performance in Paan Singh Tomar. Not just in Bollywood, he has ruled Hollywood as well with his appearances in several massive films, such as Slumdog Millionaire, which earned over Rs 3000 crore worldwide. He also starred in several successful movies, such as Jurassic World, The Amazing Spider-Man, and The Life of Pi.
In 2020, the actor passed away at the age of 53 due to neuroendocrine cancer. He is still remembered all over the world for his unmatched talent and the legacy he has left behind.
Also Read: Irfan Khan remembered: Celebrating legacy through iconic dialogues
Read Exclusive COVID-19 Coronavirus News updates, at MyNation.