Priyanka Chopra, who starred with him in 7 Khoon Maaf in 2011, said his "charisma" made for "pure magic" on set and on screen.
Khan was also known for roles in Jurassic World, Life of Pi and the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire.
Boyle told the BBC: "Irrfan was a wonderful actor and a pivotal figure in the making of Slumdog Millionaire."
He added: "It wasn't a huge role, and in fact on paper it was even less rewarding-looking.
