Mumbai: In a heartfelt letter to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Dr. Kafeel Khan, the doctor who faced legal entanglemens in connection with the tragic Gorakhpur hospital deaths in 2017, expressed his gratitude for the recent blockbuster film "Jawan."
The action drama, directed by Atlee and starring Sanya Malhotra, portrays a storyline strikingly similar to Dr. Khan's own experiences.
The 2017 Gorakhpur hospital deaths gained national attention when over 60 children lost their lives due to the interruption of oxygen supply. Dr. Kafeel Khan, initially hailed as a hero for his efforts to secure oxygen cylinders with his own money, faced legal consequences and imprisonment on charges of dereliction of duty. However, he was later acquitted of all charges in 2019.
In "Jawan," the character Eeram, played by Sanya Malhotra, undergoes a comparable tragedy. The film unfolds as she encounters Shah Rukh Khan's vigilante character, Azaad, in prison. Together with other wronged individuals, they embark on a mission to expose societal malpractices and bring the actual culprits to justice.
In his letter to Shah Rukh Khan, Dr. Kafeel expressed his profound appreciation for the film's depiction of critical socio-political issues. While acknowledging the justice served in the cinematic narrative, Dr. Khan drew attention to the fact that, in reality, the culprits behind the Gorakhpur hospital deaths remain at large.
Dr. Khan further requested a meeting with both Shah Rukh Khan and Director Atlee, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to serving the countrymen. He conveyed his determination to continue his sanctified efforts, echoing the theme of justice portrayed in "Jawan."
The film, now not only a box office hit but also a catalyst for social discourse, has sparked conversations surrounding real-life instances of individuals facing adversity in their pursuit of justice.
Here is the full text of Dr Khan’s letter:
To
The Honourable Mr. Shah Rukh Khan
Indian actor and film producer
Mannat, Land’s End, Bandstand, Bandra (West), Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400050.
From
Dr Kafeel Khan
Ex assistant Professor
BRD medical college, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh-273001
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.
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.
I also want to assure you that my sanctification, devotion, and determination towards serving my countrymen would continue undeterred.
Thank you once again for being a beacon of hope. I look forward to your kind reply.
Warmest regards,
Dr Kafeel Khan