On July 4, 2025, Anurag Basu’s Metro… In Dino was released, drawing both acclaim and inevitable comparisons with its cult predecessor, Life In A… Metro (2007). The new film features Pankaj Tripathi in the role of ‘Monty,’ a character immortalized nearly two decades ago by the late Irrfan Khan. These comparisons sparked discussions among audiences and critics alike, prompting Tripathi to address the sensitive subject of Pankaj Tripathi Irrfan Khan comparison with deep respect and humility.
Pankaj Tripathi Shares His Thoughts on Being Compared to Irrfan Khan
Despite widespread praise for his nuanced performance marked by subtle humor and emotional depth, Pankaj Tripathi has openly rejected the idea that he could replace Irrfan Khan. In an interview with Zoom, the Mirzapur star stressed his admiration for Irrfan, who had been his senior at the National School of Drama (NSD). Tripathi emphasized the difference between paying tribute and assuming the irreplaceable legacy left behind by the renowned actor.
“Yeh comparison bilkul nahi hona chahiye. Voh mere senior the aur main unka fan rahunga. Mere drama school ke senior the voh. Hum ek hi acting institute se seekhe hai. Main khud unke craft ko dekhke seekhta tha. Voh Irrfan sir hai, unki jagah hum sabke dilon mein hai.”
—Pankaj Tripathi, Actor
This statement underscores Tripathi’s respect, highlighting their shared roots and his personal inspiration drawn from Irrfan’s craft. His remarks reflect an acknowledgment that some artistic contributions are unique and cannot simply be replicated.
Konkona Sen Sharma Clarifies the Differences Between the Two Films’ Characters
Konkona Sen Sharma, who starred opposite Irrfan in the original Life In A… Metro as ‘Shruti’ and reprises a role in Metro… In Dino as ‘Kajal,’ also weighed in on the comparison debate. She stressed that while Pankaj Tripathi’s ‘Monty’ shares a name with Irrfan’s character, the films depict fundamentally distinct life stages and circumstances.
“Life In A Metro was 17–18 years ago. That time, Irrfan and I played Shruti and Monty. They were a much younger couple with younger concerns. Now, Pankaj and my characters are different. They are a much older, married couple with kids. They have jobs, EMIs, responsibilities.”
—Konkona Sen Sharma, Actress
Konkona’s remarks highlight the narrative evolution between the films, emphasizing that Metro… In Dino explores the complexities and challenges of a mature, married couple navigating family life and financial obligations, setting it apart from the younger, relational exploration of the original.
Filmmaker Anurag Basu Reveals Irrfan Khan’s Role in Conception of the Sequel
In an interview with News18 Showsha, Anurag Basu, director of both films and a close friend of Irrfan Khan, disclosed that the sequel’s idea originated from Irrfan himself. Basu shared that after the release of Jagga Jasoos, the two had conversations about continuing the story of Life In A… Metro, with Irrfan encouraging the project and intending to participate before his untimely demise.
“Post Jagga Jasoos, Irrfan and I were talking about a sequel to Life In A Metro. He, in fact, had given me the idea to start working on it. He told me, ‘Metro 2 banaate hai.’ He told me about it much later, not immediately after the first film.”
—Anurag Basu, Filmmaker
This revelation casts a poignant light on the journey of Metro… In Dino, showing that the sequel was not merely a revival but a continuation inspired and envisioned by Irrfan himself.
Original Cast Planning and Changes Following Irrfan Khan’s Passing
Anurag Basu also explained that Metro… In Dino was initially planned as a direct continuation featuring both Irrfan Khan and Konkona Sen Sharma reprising their roles. However, after Irrfan’s death, the project’s direction shifted, with Konkona being the only original cast member to return, as Basu believed her presence was essential to maintain the emotional continuity and depth of the film.
The reworked story allowed for a fresh narrative focus, while still honoring the emotional essence and legacy of the original. Basu’s adaptation response reflects the challenge of balancing reverence for a late artist and creating meaningful, new cinema.
Pankaj Tripathi’s Stand Reflects Industry Respect and Audience Sentiment
The responses from Pankaj Tripathi, Konkona Sen Sharma, and Anurag Basu indicate a collective acknowledgment of Irrfan Khan’s irreplaceable contribution to Indian cinema, as well as the delicate nature of comparisons in art. Tripathi’s refusal to be seen as a substitute rather than an individual artist in his own right echoes the sentiments of many fans and critics.
Moreover, Konkona’s clarification of distinct storylines mitigates expectations of a simple sequel and prepares audiences for a nuanced, contemporary exploration different from the original. Basu’s tribute through Metro… In Dino demonstrates a commitment to honoring Irrfan Khan’s memory while evolving the narrative to reflect the passage of time and changing lives.
Metro… In Dino’s release has been met with widespread acclaim, with viewers appreciating its emotional layers and performances. As audiences continue to engage with the film, the respectful positioning of Pankaj Tripathi alongside Irrfan Khan sets a tone of homage instead of replication, encouraging a deeper appreciation of both works.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much does Pankaj Tripathi charge?
A. According to Zee Zest, Pankaj Tripathi usually charges between INR 4 to 5 crore per movie. However, he received INR 10 crore for Mirzapur and INR 12 crore for Sacred Games.
