ADVERTISEMENTs
Veteran Indian actor-director Asrani passes away
The actor is remembered for his comic brilliance and memorable roles across five decades of Indian cinema.
-
1749497506.png)
Malvika Choudhary - Tue, 21, Oct 2025
- 17:02 EDT
- 18
Govardhan Asrani / Instagram (Govardhan Asrani)
Indian veteran actor and director Govardhan Asrani, popularly known as Asrani, passed away in Mumbai on Oct. 20 at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness.
The actor, remembered for his comic brilliance and memorable roles across five decades of Indian cinema, breathed his last at Arogya Nidhi Hospital in Juhu.
Also Read: The Boy Who Told BigB to Skip the Instructions — and Why Everyone Lost It
His family shared a heartfelt message on his official Instagram account, stating, “Our beloved, the one who brought smiles to everyone’s faces, Asrani ji is no longer among us. His passing is an irreparable loss for both Hindi cinema and our hearts. The indelible mark he left through his performances will remain eternal. May God grant peace to his soul. Om Shanti.”
Born in Jaipur on Jan. 1, 1941, Asrani began his artistic journey as a voice artist at All India Radio before training in acting under Sahitya Kalabhai Thakkar. Moving to Mumbai in 1962 to pursue his passion for films, he enrolled at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, graduating in 1966.
His early years in the industry were marked by struggle, with small roles in films such as Hum Kahan Ja Rahe Hain, Hare Kanch Ki Chooriyan, Umang, and Satyakam.
His breakthrough came in 1971 when filmmaker Hrishikesh Mukherjee cast him as an aspiring actor in Guddi, a film that also marked the debut of Jaya Bhaduri (now Bachchan). The success of Guddi brought Asrani into the spotlight, leading to collaborations with top filmmakers of the era.
He went on to deliver a string of acclaimed performances in classics like Bawarchi, Namak Haraam, Chupke Chupke, Abhimaan, Chhoti Si Baat, Pati Patni Aur Woh, Parichay, and Rafoo Chakkar.
Asrani’s most enduring role, however, remains that of the eccentric jailor in Ramesh Sippy’s 1975 blockbuster Sholay. His portrayal of the bumbling, authoritarian warden—inspired by Hitler—became one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic comic performances, cementing his reputation as a master of timing and expression.
Over his prolific career, Asrani appeared in more than 300 films in Hindi and Gujarati, balancing comedic and character roles with ease. He also directed six films, including Chala Murari Hero Banne (1977), and continued to appear on screen well into his later years. His final film appearance was in the 2023 comedy Non Stop Dhamaal.
Reports said the actor had been battling age-related ailments for several days before his condition worsened. His last rites were performed at Santacruz Crematorium on Oct. 20 evening, attended by close family and industry colleagues. He is survived by his wife, actress Manju Asrani.
In his final social media post, shared just hours before his death, Asrani had wished his followers a Happy Diwali—a message that fans are now calling a poignant farewell from one of Hindi cinema’s most loved entertainers.
Tributes poured in from across the film fraternity, with actors and filmmakers describing him as a “true legend of laughter” and “the face of Indian comedy.”
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
ADVERTISEMENT
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login