Irrfan Khan: Slumdog Millionaire and Life of Pi actor dies

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 apart 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.

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

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

Two months after Khan went public with his diagnosis, he wrote an open letter about his experience with the cancer treatment, reflecting on the "power" of his pain and the "change" of life.

It drew a huge flow of support from his fans around the world.

The statement released by his PR company confirming his death said, "surrounded by his love, his family for whom he most cared about, he left for heavenly abode, leaving behind truly a legacy of his own. We all pray and hope that he is at peace".

He had been admitted to hospital with a colon infection.