Irrfan Khan: A Legacy of Versatility and Excellence

Irrfan Khan was a highly acclaimed Indian actor who left an indelible mark on both television and cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, he showcased his versatility and talent in a wide range of roles, earning him numerous awards and accolades.

Television Career

Khan's journey in the entertainment industry began with television, where he appeared in several notable serials, including:

- Chanakya: A historical drama that showcased his ability to portray complex characters

- Bharat Ek Khoj: A series that highlighted India's rich cultural heritage

- Chandrakanta: A fantasy period drama that demonstrated his range as an actor

- In Treatment: An American television series where he played the role of Sunil Sanyal, a character struggling to cope with his wife's death

Cinematic Contributions

Khan's film career was marked by critically acclaimed performances in both Bollywood and international films, including:

- The Warrior: A British film that brought him international recognition

- Maqbool: A crime drama that showcased his ability to portray complex characters

- The Namesake: A film that highlighted the struggles of an Indian family in the United States

- Slumdog Millionaire: A globally acclaimed film that earned him widespread recognition

- Life of Pi: A film that demonstrated his ability to play complex and nuanced roles

- Jurassic World: A blockbuster film that showcased his versatility in mainstream cinema

Impact and Legacy

Khan's contributions to cinema and television have been widely recognized, earning him numerous awards, including:

- National Film Award: For his outstanding performance in "Paan Singh Tomar"

- Filmfare Awards: For his performances in various films, including "Haasil" and "Hindi Medium"

- Padma Shri: India's fourth-highest civilian honor, awarded for his contributions to the arts

Khan's legacy extends beyond his on-screen performances. He inspired a generation of actors and filmmakers, and his commitment to his craft continues to influence the industry. Despite his untimely passing in 2020, Khan's work remains a testament to his talent and dedication.

Will Trump do something to stop Israel’s genocide in Gaza?

May 17, 2025
United States President Donald Trump's tour of the Middle East this week is his first international trip since he started his second term. Conspicuously absent from his itinerary, however, was Washington’s closest ally in the region: Israel.

A growing rift between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Contributors:
Diana Buttu – Human rights lawyer and analyst
Dana Mills – Writer, +972 magazine and Local Call
Jeremy Scahill – Cofounder, Drop Site News

On our radar:

Tariq Nafi reports on the killing this week of one of Gaza’s best-known journalists - and why it represents a new low in Israel’s unparalleled war on the press.

Are India’s news channels helping or harming?

The tit-for-tat conflict between India and Pakistan lasted only a week before a ceasefire deal was reached, but it was long enough to provide an insight into the role the media might play in a longer war.

We speak with Indian journalist Hartosh Singh Bal about mainstream media under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government - from misinformation to hate speech - and the alternative news outlets trying to provide the antidote.

Featuring:
Hartosh Singh Bal – Executive editor, The Caravan magazine

Antonio Guterres says UN won’t take part in Gaza ‘aid operation’ not adhering to international law

 May 17, 2025
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, speaking at the Arab League Summit in Baghdad, said he is alarmed by Israel’s plans to expand its ground operations in the Gaza Strip. He also stressed that Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected.

Ukraine-Russia talks in Istanbul: Analysts weigh in on diplomatic prospects

 May 16, 2025
As Ukraine and Russia participate in diplomatic discussions in Istanbul, perspectives from both sides are emerging. Vyacheslav Matuzov, a political analyst and former Russian diplomat, joins Al Jazeera's live coverage from Moscow to provide insight into Russia's strategic stance. Meanwhile, Peter Zalmayev, Executive Director of the Eurasia Democracy Initiative, speaks from Kyiv on Ukraine’s expectations and the potential outcomes of these negotiations.

Iran holds nuclear talks with European diplomats in Turkiye

May 16, 2025
Iranian and European diplomats have wrapped up a fresh round of talks in Istanbul, Turkiye, to discuss the future of Tehran’s nuclear programme. The Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister held discussions with representatives from the UK, France, and Germany amid renewed hopes for progress on a nuclear deal. The talks come after US President Donald Trump stated that a nuclear agreement with Iran may soon be finalised.

Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi reports from Tehran.

Ukraine and Russia resume peace talks in Turkiye, first meeting since 2022

May 16, 2025
For the first time since 2022, Ukraine and Russia are engaging in peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has sent a delegation to Istanbul to meet with Russian officials, in a bid to negotiate a path forward. Although Zelenskyy had publicly challenged Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend in person, the Kremlin has declined, sending a delegation instead.

Al Jazeera’s Bernard Smith reports from Istanbul.

What do the Gulf states gain from the US president's historic trip to the region?

May 16, 2025  
Even before he flew to the Gulf, the focus in American media was on the billions of dollars of new investments Donald Trump was eyeing.

The US President has since signed mega deals, making his 'America first' goal as much a part of economic strategy as foreign policy.

One of the biggest was in Qatar, where Boeing secured its largest ever order of wide-body jets from Qatar Airways.

Doha also promised to invest more than $10bn in the Al Udeid air base, one of America's biggest military facilities in the world.
 
Trump says he's forging a future with the Middle East defined by commerce, not chaos -- but does it mean regional stability and security are now taking a back seat?

And how likely is it that the US President would throw America's weight behind ending the devastating war in Gaza?

Presenter: Dareen Abughaida

Guests:

Faisal Al Mudahka - Editor In Chief, The Gulf Times.

Andreas Krieg - Senior Lecturer, King’s College London's School of Security Studies.

Paul Musgrave - Associate Professor of Government, Georgetown University in Doha.