Irrfan Khan may be in London undergoing treatment for cancer, but his Maqbool co-star Tabu’s this statement will definitely bring a bright smile on the actor’s face. Recently during an interview the Simmba actress was seen discussing her past work. From Maachis to Maqbool, Tabu talked about how her career was shaped by some great work offered to her. While the actress was extremely relaxed throughout her interaction with senior journalist Rajeev Masand, it was endearing to watch the actress get emotional while talking about Irrfan. She almost welled-up when she down the memory lane and discussed her experience on working with the Karwaan actor.

Tabu said, “The reason why Nimmi will be Nimmi is because Maqbool is Maqbool and because Maqbool was Irrfan. I don’t know if I would have had a better give and take or interaction or chemistry with any other person playing Maqbool. I think it became or it was because we were in it together. I can’t think of anybody else as Maqbool. He just made it completely real.”

Apart from Maqbool, Tabu and Irrfan have worked together in The Namesake, Life of Pi, Haider and Talvar. It was recently reported that Tabu was the original choice for Neena Gupta’s part in Badhaai Ho; the actress apparently rejected the role because Irrfan refused to be a part of the film. As per reports, Tabu was uncomfortable playing a mother to Ayushmann Khurrana, who she is paired opposite in Andhadhun. Initially Tabu suggested that another younger hero be cast as her son in the film. However later she asked the makers to sign Irrfan for the husband’s part. Irrfan felt that the role wasn’t too meaty and the movie belonged to the mother and son and turned down the offer. Tabu too walked out of the film afterwards. Also see: Tabu REACTS to Kajol's Version of Ruk Ruk Ruk Song From Helicopter Eela

We now know why Tabu would have wanted Irrfan in this movie. After all it’s a special on screen bond that these two super talented actors share on screen. And besides being fine actors, these two also make for a great pair on the big screen. Now that news of Irrfan’s recovery has come in recently we hope to see this duo sizzle the screen with their awesome performance soon.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 26, 2018 06:42 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).