While we celebrate Irfan Khan’s contribution to cult television, we also pay our respects to the legendary Irrfan Khan (1967-2020), a separate titan of Indian cinema whose legacy continues to inspire globally.
Unlike the campy villains of the era, Irfan Khan played the role with a chilling sincerity. He wasn't there to make you laugh; he was there to make you believe that Tona-Totka (black magic) could actually bring the palace down.
For 90s kids in India, Sunday mornings were sacred. The reason? Chandrakanta , the Doordarshan mega-serial based on Devaki Nandan Khatri’s classic novel. While the show is remembered for its romance between Prince Virendra Singh and Princess Chandrakanta, and the comedic timing of the Aiyyar (spies) Kroor Singh and Chapla, the show’s tension hinged on a terrifying villain. That villain was brought to life by actor (not to be confused with the globally renowned Irrfan Khan ). irfan khan in chandrakanta
The show was based on a popular Hindi novel of the same name, written by Devaki Nandan Khatri. It was a fantasy drama series that revolved around the story of Chandrakanta, a princess who falls in love with a prince named Trilok. However, their love is opposed by many, including Manasthali, who uses his magical powers to try and destroy their relationship.
Note: This article clarifies the common confusion between the late, legendary actor (who was not in this show) and the actor Irfan Khan who played the iconic villain. While we celebrate Irfan Khan’s contribution to cult
Re-watching Chandrakanta on OTT platforms today reveals just how effective Irfan Khan was. Without the aid of slick VFX, he had to conjure fear using only his physicality and diction. In scenes where he would draw yantras on the floor or conjure Tilism (illusions), his intense focus elevated the cheap special effects of the time.
In "Chandrakanta," Irfan Khan played the role of Manasthali, a powerful sorcerer who was one of the main antagonists of the show. His character was known for his magical powers and his ability to manipulate others. For 90s kids in India, Sunday mornings were sacred
aiyyar (spy/warrior) of Chunargarh, characterized by his black armor, agile horse, and unwavering loyalty to his kingdom. Somnath : Badrinath's evil twin who betrayed his kingdom to join the enemy. He was visually distinct from his brother, featuring reddish, shoulder-length hair and flamboyant costumes. Critics and fans alike recall his performance as "striking" and "magical," even within a genre known for its over-the-top costumes and sorcery. Despite having minimal dialogue—sometimes just four lines an episode—he managed to weave a sense of gravity and mystery into his characters that made them some of the most memorable of the series. The Times of India +2 Production Context and Struggles Retrospective reviews often highlight the irony of Irrfan's early struggles on the set: Limited Dialogue
Irrfan Khan’s entry into Chandrakanta was almost accidental. He was initially reluctant to join the show, but his close friend and co-star (who played Prince Virendra Singh) persuaded him to take the role to gain wider recognition.