Actor Manu Rishi Chadha Shares Emotional Memories of His Bond with the Late Irrfan Khan
Mumbai: Actor Manu Rishi Chadha recently opened up in an interview about his deep bond with the late Irrfan Khan and the painful experience of bidding him farewell. Manu Rishi, who worked alongside Irrfan in Angrezi Medium and Hindi Medium, shared how he buried the iconic actor with his own hands, a memory that continues to weigh heavily on his heart.
A Brotherly Bond
Manu Rishi and Irrfan Khan shared more than just a professional relationship; they considered each other as brothers. This bond made Irrfan’s passing on 29th April 2020, even more devastating for Manu. The 54-year-old actor, beloved by many, lost his battle with cancer and passed away in a Mumbai hospital. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Manu Rishi couldn’t see Irrfan one last time, but he ensured that he was there to perform the final rites.
Bidding a Painful Goodbye
In a moving episode of The Red Mike podcast, Manu Rishi tearfully recounted the day he buried Irrfan. “I almost missed seeing him for the last time,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “The cemetery was close to my house, and when I reached there, everyone was standing at the gate. The police, due to COVID protocols, weren’t allowing anyone inside. I didn’t have any special connection with the officer in charge, but he let me in. I buried Irrfan with my own hands and applied sandalwood to him.”
Memories on Set
Manu Rishi also reminisced about working with Irrfan, sharing a particular memory from the set of Hindi Medium. He recalled, “When Hindi Medium was about to begin, I called the director and mentioned that I played an important role in Angrezi Medium. I asked if there was any small role for me in the sequel, just so I could hug Irrfan Bhai. Irrfan Bhai then called me and said, ‘I’m sending you a ticket. Come to Udaipur in two days.’ I went there just to hug him. I hugged Irrfan that day, but I couldn’t work. It was very painful. I felt like this man was leaving us, and I wanted to collect as many memories as I could.”
Support and Guidance
Manu Rishi also shared a touching story of how Irrfan supported him during a difficult time on set. “There was a moment when I stood up against a director,” he recalled. “Instead of scolding me, Irrfan came to my house and said, ‘Either you will die, or you will prosper.’ His words and his support meant the world to me.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Irrfan Khan may have left this world, but his legacy and the memories he created with those close to him continue to live on. For Manu Rishi, these memories are not just reminders of the past but lessons and inspirations that he carries forward.
