Bollywood actor Irrfan Khan, known internationally for roles in Slumdog Millionaire and Jurassic World, has died at the age of 53.

Khan was known for his nuanced and understated performances, with many calling him one of India's most talented actors.

He was so highly respected, director Wes Anderson once wrote him a part just so he could work with him.

In 2018, the actor revealed he had an endocrine tumour, a rare illness.

He later underwent treatment in a London hospital for the illness which affects cells that release hormones into the bloodstream.

Bollywood stars and politicians have rushed to pay tribute to him on social media.

"An incredible talent... a gracious colleague... a prolific contributor to the World of Cinema... left us too soon... creating a huge vacuum," superstar actor Amitabh Bachchan who worked with him in Piku tweeted.

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Actor Raveena Tandon tweeted that he was a "fantastic co-star, an actor par excellence, and a beautiful human being".

Actor Konkana Sensharma said Irrfan paved the way for many actors.

"Irrfan shone so bright that we all reflected in his glory. Who will we look to for such integrity again? The world is a lesser place now. Thank you for having the courage to be yourself and unlocking worlds for us, Irrfan," she tweeted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described his death as "a loss to the world of cinema and theatre".

"He will be remembered for his versatile performances across different mediums. My thoughts are with his family, friends and admirers. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

Khan moved seamlessly from Bollywood to theatre to Hollywood action and art house.

In 2013, he won India's National Film Award for his leading role in Paan Singh Tomar, a biopic about a top athlete who becomes a bandit.

Other Bollywood hits he acted in including Lunchbox, Piku and Hindi Medium. His latest, Angrezi Medium, was released just last month.

His international breakthrough came in the British-Indian film The Warrior by director Asif Kapadia which won a Bafta.

It was also shortlisted for the UK's official entry for the Academy Awards but had to be dropped on the technicality that Hindi was not a language indigenous to Britain.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-52468343