Irrfan turns 47, throws party for the first time

By Subhash K. Jha -

January 13, 2014 - 10:35 AM IST

Irrfan Khan quietly turned a year older on Tuesday January 7 on the sets of Nishikant Kamath's new film.

There was no celebration on the sets. But that's only because Irrfan's guests are not in town. The actor never known to socialize seriously is all set to throw his first birthday bash in coming week.

Says Irrfan, "I was working on my birthday. To me, that's the best way to celebrate. For years I waited for the right roles. Now when they're coming to me I feel privileged, blessed, relieved and liberated. In the evening on my birthday I went to the Screen awards' nomination party where I was nominated as the Best Actor for The Lunchbox. That to me was the best birthday gift possible."

This chameleon actor doesn't believe in birthdays. One reason for his apathy to his special day is the fact that the internet for a very long time gave out the wrong date for his birthday.

"I'd get calls on the wrong day. That was very annoying. That doesn't mean I'm against birthday celebrations. In fact I am going to have a party for the first time this year for my birthday. I am waiting for my friends from abroad to arrive," reveals Irrfan shyly.

Irrfan feels there's a lot to celebrate this year. "Last year was very satisfying for me. The Lunchbox got me tremendous praise. The film continues to make waves in various parts of the world. I also turned producer with The Lunchbox. So I'd say this birthday I feel very fulfilled."

I wonder how Irrfan manages to look 40 at 47!

And he laughs, "I do look after myself. But not in an obsessive way. I work-out. But in my own way. I follow the regime that my body demands and not what the physical trainer thinks my body requires. Besides that, I think I am getting to do the work that I want. Inner contentment always reflects on your face and body."