/> For now, Irrfan Khan is saying no to every assignment being offered to him to focus on the toughest and most challenging role of his career.

To play the steeple-chase runner in Tigmanshu Dhulia's Paan Singh Tomar Irrfan Khan is now devoting every waking minute to practicing the steeple chase.

He therefore has no time for any other project. "This is the most physically and mentally demanding film of my career. If I give attention to anything else I won't be able to do justice to this role.

You see steeple chase is a a far more complicated form of marathon run than other kinds. It demands a continuous rhythm as one runs and jumps. It's the most difficult task I've ever undertaken as an actor."

Unable to cope with the heavy demands on his body and mind Irrfan has stopped work on all other projects. "I've steeple- chase experts constantly working on me. I'm trying to stretch my body to its limit. I have to look convincing as this long-distance steeple chase runner. Otherwise the film falls flat. I can't afford that risk at this stage of my career."

Says Irrfan, "There are lots of talks for new projects, both national and international. But I'm not signing anything. I have to devote all my time to getting the steeple chase right."