Irrfan Khan says Indian films are not worth talking in West

Versatile actor Irrfan Khan has shown his credibility not only in Bollywood, but also in Hollywood. The 47-year-old, who has worked in Hollywood projects like The Namesake, New York, I Love You, The Amazing Spider-Man and Life of Pi, says that Indians are not respected in abroad, the way they should be.

While talking in Jaipur Literature Festival, Irrfan drew light on the same, “India ka wajood bahar aisa kuch khaas nahin hai. Apko izzat nahi milti (You don’t get respect). While here, we keep saying 'Saare jahan se achcha Hindustan humara’, the truth is that our existence is not worth talking about in the West, be it in terms of Bollywood or otherwise." He further talked about the worth of Oscars saying, "See, there are no awards in the film industry that change your market value, except for the Oscars. Ye award (Oscar) kisi bhi actor ko miley to zindagi badal jaati hai."

He added to his remarks, "The standard set for Oscar nomination has been maintained through the years. It’s not like 5-7 people just select someone." According to Irrfan, Bollywood directors make films for their profit and there are very few filmmakers like Govind Nihalani, who make realistic movies like Aakrosh. The actor has given remarkable contribution in The Lunchbox and is currently busy in three ongoing ventures Siddharth, Gunday and Punjabi flick Qissa.