Gulshan Devaiah reflects on the profound influence of Irrfan Khan

Actor Gulshan Devaiah has recently opened up about the significant influence the late Irrfan Khan had on his understanding of acting and his professional development. In a candid reflection, Devaiah described how he meticulously studied the techniques of various accomplished performers throughout his career. Lacking formal training from a drama school, he explained that he developed his own craft by observing the work of others, including Irrfan Khan, while maintaining a conscious effort to avoid imitation.Devaiah emphasized that his learning process involved absorbing elements from performers both consciously and subconsciously. He noted that he drew inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Manoj Bajpayee, Daniel Day-Lewis, Robert De Niro, and Kate Winslet. Despite his admiration for these figures, he stated that he remained focused on cultivating a unique style rather than simply replicating their work.Reflecting on what made Irrfan Khan a unique and compelling presence on screen, Devaiah highlighted the late actor’s ability to command an audience's focus without relying on overt theatrics or exaggerated gestures. He pointed out that Khan often utilized restraint, holding back rather than over-delivering. According to Devaiah, Khan possessed a natural, magnetic quality, aided by his expressive eyes and an unpredictable approach to scenes. Even when performing minimal actions, Khan could effectively capture the attention of viewers, often delivering lines in unconventional ways that set him apart from conventional leading men.The impact of Irrfan Khan's work on Devaiah extended beyond technical admiration, as evidenced by his emotional reaction to the news of the veteran actor's passing. Devaiah recalled a poignant conversation with his mother during which he realized the depth of his personal attachment to the late actor. He shared that he was moved to tears while speaking with her, admitting that the loss felt remarkably personal, much like the passing of a family member. He noted that his mother was surprised by the intensity of his reaction, a sentiment he confessed he had not fully processed himself until that moment.Devaiah described Irrfan Khan as a one-of-a-kind performer whose influence remains a cornerstone of his own career journey. By studying how Khan used subtle expressions and unconventional delivery to build a character, Devaiah believes he gained valuable insights into the craft of acting that have guided his own performances. The actor’s reflections highlight the lasting legacy left by Khan, who is remembered by many in the industry as a transformative figure in Indian cinema.As he continues his own professional trajectory, Devaiah is currently gearing up for the release of his upcoming film, Little Thomas. Directed by Kaushal Oza, the movie tells the story of a curious young boy who has a deep desire for a sibling. The film is scheduled to arrive in theatres on October 23. This project marks another step in Devaiah's career, an artistic journey he maintains was significantly shaped by the observational lessons he gleaned from watching masters of the craft like Irrfan Khan.Ultimately, Devaiah’s tribute serves as a reminder of the quiet, disciplined power that defined Khan’s career. His comments underscore the difference between performance and art, focusing on the ability to hold an audience’s gaze through nuance and restraint. For Devaiah, the late actor remains an essential, albeit inimitable, reference point for what it means to command the screen with authenticity and deep-seated emotional presence.