Dr Kafeel Khan, who received national attention in the wake of the tragic Gorakhpur hospital deaths case, has written a letter to actor Shah Rukh Khan, appreciating the issues addressed in his recent blockbuster Jawan. Over 60 children died after the Uttar Pradesh government-run BRD medical college ran out of liquid oxygen in August 2017.
Though he was hailed as a hero initially for his efforts to save the children and alerting authorities earlier about the shortage of oxygen cylinders, he was later jailed on charges of dereliction of duties. He was acquitted on all charges in 2019. Kafeel Khan later penned a book—The Gorakhpur Hospital Tragedy—to share his experience and shed light on systemic failures as well as horrid conditions in hospitals in the state.
Jawan seems to have drawn inspiration from the Gorakhpur hospital tragedy that shook the nation. Dr Eeram Khan, the character portrayed by Sanya Malhotra, goes through a similar situation in the film and is later jailed. In prison, she meets Azaad, the vigilante character essayed by Shah Rukh Khan.
Taking to social media platform X, Kafeel Khan shared a lengthy hand-written letter addressed to Shah Rukh. He hailed Shah Rukh's commitment to use cinema as a means to “address socio-political issues”. He further wrote: “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.”
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to obtain your email address, @iamsrk sir .
— Dr Kafeel Khan (@drkafeelkhan) October 5, 2023
Consequently, I sent the letter by post, but that also showing in transit even after many days .Therefore posting it here 🙏🏾
To
The Honourable Mr. Shah Rukh Khan
Indian actor and film producer
Mannat,… pic.twitter.com/9OxtzHQJ5M
Kafeel Khan added that though 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.”
Full letter:
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.
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.
On a personal note, I would like to share that I have authored a book titled “The Gorakhpur Hospital Tragedy,” originally published by @panmacmillan and available in more than six languages which provides a comprehensive first hand account of the tragedy and its aftermath. I believe that a part of the movie’s plot resonates with the events detailed in my book.
If given the opportunity, I would be immensely honored to meet you and the talented director @Atlee_dir, as well as other members of the film’s crew, to express my gratitude personally.
