News reaching us confirms that popular Bollywood actor, Irrfan Khan has passed away. He was 53 years old.

According to Indian Express, he died on Wednesday in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, after a long battle with cancer.

Several high-profile persons have taken to social media to mourn the loss of the actor who featured in well over 50 domestic movies.

The president of India, Ram Nath Kovind, described the loss of the talented actor as an ‘untimely’ demise.

“Saddened by the untimely demise of noted actor Irrfan Khan.” Ram Nath Kovind wrote. “A rare talent and a brilliant actor, his diverse roles and remarkable performances will remain etched in our memories.

“A big loss to the world of cinema and millions of film lovers. Condolences to his family & admirers,” he added.

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, described his demise as a loss o the world of cenema a theatre, saying ‘he will be remembered for his versatile’ performances across different mediums.

Fellow Bollywood actor and film producer, Amitabh Bachchan, described the news of his loss as ‘most disturbing’ and sad.

He is survived by his wife, Sutapa Sikdar, and two grown sons, Babil and Ayan.

CNN reported that his own mother passed on last week, however, Khan was not able to attend her last rites as a result of the global coronavirus lockdowns.

In a career spanning over 30 years, Khan received numerous awards, including a National Film Award and Filmfare Awards in four categories.

Irfan Khan will be remembered for his work predominantly in Hindi cinema, in addition to British and American films.

He featured in movies like Slumdog Millionaire, Jurassic World, Life of Pi, to mention but a few.