Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; February 14, 2019)

We have missed one of our finest actors — Irrfan — in the movies this past year. On March 16, 2018, he took to Twitter to announce that he has been diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour, a rare form of cancer. The news was an emotional jolt to him and his fans. After undergoing treatment in London, we have now learnt that the actor is back in Mumbai.

While it was reported that Irrfan will resume shoot on February 22 for the sequel to Hindi Medium, our source close to the actor denied the news. He said, “Yes, Irrfan is back in Mumbai, but he hasn’t given any date as to when he will resume shooting. He is taking things slowly.”

Bhushan Kumar, (co-producer of Hindi Medium and its sequel with Dinesh Vijan) told BT, “Hindi Medium 2 will happen, but it will take time. It is not going on floors on February 22 as reported. The film will happen only with Irrfan. His fans and audiences need to wait a bit more. We will surely make an announcement soon.”

Our source also denied the news of Irrfan being admitted to a Mumbai hospital. He clarified, “Irrfan has been given a sanction from the London hospital to shift base to Mumbai, where he can continue with his treatment. He is here now, but he hasn’t been admitted to any suburban hospital as reported. He will consult the doctors as and when required. People should stop speculating and give him some space.”