Global superstar Irrfan Khan once repaired Rajesh Khanna's air conditioner

Today marks the Irrfan Khan birth anniversary, a day to celebrate a man who didn't just play characters but lived them on screen. While the world remembers him as a global icon, his path to the top was paved with humble beginnings and unexpected turns that sound like a movie script itself.

Born in Rajasthan as Sahabzade Irfan Ali Khan, the actor's first love was actually cricket. He was a talented all-rounder, even earning a spot in the prestigious CK Nayudu Trophy. However, financial hurdles eventually blocked his path to the stadium. This shift in destiny led him to the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi, marking the start of a legendary Irrfan Khan struggle story.

During his early days in Mumbai, money was tight. To make ends meet, he took up various odd jobs, including working as an air conditioning technician. In a candid throwback conversation, the actor once shared a surreal memory of visiting the home of Bollywood’s first superstar, Rajesh Khanna. He wasn't there to audition or ask for a role; he was there to fix the AC.

Irrfan recalled the moment a housekeeper opened the door and asked who he was. He simply replied, "AC wala." Stepping into the Rajesh Khanna bungalow gave him a glimpse of the stardom he would one day achieve through his own hard work. That brief encounter as a repairman planted a seed of ambition that eventually bloomed into an incredible career.

From his powerful performance in Maqbool to his international success in Life of Pi, Irrfan brought a unique honesty to cinema. He proved that you don’t need a filmy background to become a Bollywood legend Irrfan Khan. His journey reminds us that greatness often starts with small, quiet steps—sometimes even with a toolbox in hand. Though he passed away in 2020, his legacy continues to inspire millions of dreamers across India, including his many fans in Odisha.