Irrfan back in India, to start work after final health reports

Irrfan is finally back in India, after being treated for cancer in London since April last year. Reports say the actor will start shooting for Hindi Medium 2, directed by Homi Adajania, on February 22. However, the film’s coproducer Bhushan Kumar denies it, saying they are still waiting for “Irrfan to get a go-ahead from doctors”.

“Irrfan is improving, but we’re waiting for his final report,” says Bhushan, adding the film is not going on the floors on February 22. “The shooting date hasn’t been finalised. We definitely want to do the film with Irrfan. Once he gets his final reports, which are due soon, we’ll make the announcement,” he adds.

While Irrfan was not available for comment, a source close to the actor informs, “Irrfan has got a green light from his doctor in London to return to India and resume work. But news of him reaching Mumbai was leaked by someone from the hospital.”

Bhushan says Irrfan himself is keen to resume shooting. “He is super excited. He has heard the script and [he] loved it. He wants to start shooting once he has fully recovered,” he adds.

As for the rest of the cast, Bhushan says: “Let’s first get a go-ahead from Irrfan, then we can talk about everything else.” Reports say Pataakha (2018) actor Radhika Madan has been roped in to portray Irrfan’s grown-up daughter in the sequel to the 2017 film, which was directed by Saket Chaudhary. “She’s prepping for her role, but isn’t speaking about it till the production house makes an official announcement,” says a source. There is speculation that Kareena Kapoor Khan is paired opposite Irrfan, but nothing has been confirmed.

Last November, it was reported that Irrfan was in Mumbai to spend Diwali with his family before flying out of the country, but the entire episode was kept under wraps.

PHOTO: SHIVAM SAXENA/HT Actor Irrfan is back after his treatment and (inset) Hindi Medium 2 co-producer Bhushan Kumar says he’s raring to go