Late actor Irrfan Khan was one of those rare artists whose work transcended religion, language, and borders. Even today, he is remembered not just for his acting brilliance but also for his simplicity and deeply personal choices in life. Interestingly, despite being born into a Muslim family, Irrfan was often referred to as a Hindu or even a Brahmin—and this is the reason why.

Born on January 7, 1967, in Tonk district of Rajasthan, Irrfan Khan came from a Muslim Pathan family. His journey from television to Indian cinema and then to Hollywood is nothing short of extraordinary. Though he left the world too soon after battling cancer, his performances continue to live on.

Why people called Irrfan Khan a Hindu or Brahmin
In several interviews, Irrfan himself revealed an unusual fact about his lifestyle. Despite being a Muslim, he was a vegetarian since childhood. He did not consume non-vegetarian food and was strongly against animal slaughter. The idea of animals being harmed deeply disturbed him on an emotional level.

This habit was uncommon in his family and social surroundings. Because of this, people around him began associating his food habits with traditional Hindu Brahmin values. Over time, this label stuck.

Even his father used to tease him
Irrfan once shared that even his father would jokingly taunt him for his vegetarianism. He would say that a Brahmin had been born in a Pathan family. What started as light-hearted teasing at home gradually became a common remark among people who knew him. Many began calling Irrfan a Brahmin simply because of his lifestyle choices, not his religion.

Irrfan never tried to correct anyone aggressively. He believed personal beliefs and compassion mattered more than labels, and this quiet dignity became a defining part of his personality.

Irrfan Khan’s unforgettable films
Irrfan began his career with television shows before making his mark in films. Over the years, he delivered some of the finest performances in Indian and international cinema. His most memorable films include Piku, Paan Singh Tomar, Maqbool, Life of Pi, Slumdog Millionaire, and Salaam Bombay!.