Metro Memories & Melancholy: Anurag Basu Reflects on Irrfan’s Absence, Konkona’s Tears

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In a moving confession, director Anurag Basu spoke about how Irrfan Khan's absence was deeply felt in the making of Metro…In Dino, the spiritual sequel to his 2007 film Life in a… Metro. Though the film explores relationships in the times we live in with a new set of characters, it carries the emotional weight of an endearing past.

Emotional undertows

Konkona Sen Sharma, the only returning original cast member, reportedly wept in a scene that was reflective of what she shared with Irrfan in the past.

Basu admitted that though he did miss Irrfan, it was more so that Konkona missed him, recalling scenes to their shared film history.

The movie silently honors Irrfan with the name Monty, now enacted by Pankaj Tripathi, a suggestion made by Konkana herself.

Creative continuity:

Basu had previously stated that Metro…In Dino was to be originally planned with Irrfan and Konkona under consideration, continuing from their previous film.

The director emphasized his naturalistic approach to storytelling, grounding the interconnected narratives of the film in real life and relationships.

Music is still at the heart of the film, used here as a character in itself by Basu, once again scored by fellow longtime collaborator Pritam.

Metro…In Dino, which came out on July 4, 2025, is both a celebration of love in the modern era and a humble tribute to film conventions that still persist.

Sources: Firstpost, News18, Hindustan Times, NDTV, Indian Express, MSN Entertainment.