“Irrfan always chose art over materialism,” says actor-friend Jay Patel

Indo-American actor Jay Patel, who recently portrayed Shyamji Krishna Varma in the historical film Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, remembers Irrfan Khan on his fourth death anniversary.

While paying tribute to Irrfan Khan on his fourth death anniversary, Jay Patel said, “It feels like just yesterday that I was missing him. From paychecks to passion, from fancy restaurants to boutique bookstores, from soulful conversations to casting roles, from planned trips to spontaneous strolls, I feel blessed to have experienced life through his humble eyes.”

Jay continued, “I still remember how vastly different our lives and worlds were when Tishu (Tigmanshu Dhulia) introduced us. He hailed from the realm of arts, while I navigated the world of business. Yet, our bond of friendship transcended our differences, revealing that we were more alike than we could have imagined. Our friendship, our conversations, and our shared moments brought joy and meaning to my life—memories that I will cherish forever.”

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Cherishing old times, Jay says, “I cherished our moments spent on the steps of Church between 51st and 5th Avenue, where we spun tales and amused ourselves by casting strangers as characters from afar. He taught me that life’s essence lies in the simple moments.”

Jay further says, “One of his lesser-known passions was sports. We had grand plans to watch FIFA together, and I still remember the disappointment when he had to cancel our trip to Brazil in 2014. But his spirit was there with me when he called, urging me to bring back a yellow jacket from the Brazilian team. Oh, how I wish we could relive those moments of camaraderie and laughter.”

Jay concludes, “He chose art over materialism, and together, we shared our vulnerabilities and love for open skies. His mantra—’I never act; I am the character’—still resonates deeply within me. I long to hear his voice once more, a voice that spoke volumes with its silence. Until we meet again, my dear friend, may you stroll the bridges of heaven and continue to inspire us all. God bless his family. Babil and Ayan are a testament to your legacy, and Sutapaji’s strength is truly admirable. Farewell for now, Irrfan. Until we meet again and resume our walks, talks, and laughter among the celestial bridges above.”