Dr Kafeel Khan, who seems to have inspired Sanya Malhotra’s Jawan character Irum, thanked the makers for raising a crucial social issue through the film. Those who have watched Jawan can’t help but be moved by the track of Sanya Malhotra. She plays a doctor who tries to resolve lack of oxygen supply at a government hospital, that leads to the death of 63 children, but gets jailed when the government gets her arrested for dereliction of duty. It seems like director Atlee has taken a page out of real life, as a reference to Dr. Kafeel Khan’s fate in the 2017 Gorakhpur hospital tragedy. Now, Kafeel has acknowledged the same and thanked the director and producer-actor Shah Rukh Khan.
Taking to X, Dr Kafeel Khan wrote that he was unable to email Shah Rukh Khan so he has written a handwritten letter. The doctor shared pictures of the letter and wrote, “Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to obtain your email address, @iamsrk sir .Consequently, I sent the letter by post, but that also showing in transit even after many days . Therefore posting it here 🙏🏾.”He then shared the text of the letter that read, “Dear Mr. SRK sir, I trust this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I recently had the privilege of watching your latest film, “Jawan,” and I felt compelled to convey my deep appreciation for your extraordinary commitment to using cinema as a means to address critical socio-political issues. The movie’s poignant portrayal of the tragic Gorakhpur Encephalitis incident has left an indelible mark on my heart. As someone who has had a personal connection with the incident and its aftermath, I was profoundly moved by your decision to bring this story to the screen.”
It further read, “While I understand that “Jawan” is a work of fiction, the parallels it draws to the Gorakhpur tragedy serve as a powerful reminder of the systemic failures, apathy, and, most importantly, the innocent lives lost. It underscores the urgent need for accountability within our healthcare system. The character portrayed by @sanyamalhotra07 ( as Dr Eeram Khan ) although not directly referencing me, encapsulated the experiences I faced. It was heartening to witness the real culprit of “ The Gorakhpur Hospital Tragedy “ got caught, though sadly in real life the real culprits are roaming free, me still struggling to get my job back, and those 63 parents who lost their little ones still waiting for justice.”
Dr Kafeel Khan further wrote that he would be immensely honored if he could meet Shah Rukh Khan and Atlee.
Jawan has grossed a total of Rs 1100 crore at the worldwide box office. This makes Jawan Shah Rukh’s second film of the year to enter the Rs 1000 crore club.