Veteran Bollywood actor Govardhan Asrani, popularly known by his stage name Asrani, passed away at the age of 84. The exact cause of his death remain unknown at the time of reporting.
His final rites were held on Monday at the Santacruz Crematorium in Mumbai.
According to his manager and close friend, the actor succumbed to a chest infection at around 03:00 PM on 20 October.
A post on the actor’s official Instagram account confirmed the news of his passing, stating:
“The news of the passing of the king of comedy, the great actor Asrani ji, who ruled over millions of hearts, has plunged us all into deep sorrow. He gave Indian cinema a new identity with his unique acting, simplicity, and humor. The life he breathed into every character will forever live on in our memories. His passing is not just a loss for the film industry, but for everyone who ever smiled at his acting. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.”
Just hours before his death, Asrani had shared a Diwali message for his fans on social media.
With a career spanning more than five decades, Asrani was one of Indian cinema’s most beloved comic talents.
He appeared in over 350 films and was an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. There, he honed his acting skills before making his Hindi cinema debut in the mid-1960s.
Although he began with serious and supporting roles, Asrani’s gift for comedy soon made him a favourite among filmmakers.
During the 1970s and 1980s, he became a household name, portraying the endearing fool, the frazzled clerk, or the clever sidekick with impeccable timing and expressive ease.
His performances in classics such as Sholay and Chupke Chupke cemented his reputation as a comic genius.
His portrayal of the eccentric jailor parodying Hitler in Sholay remains one of the most iconic moments in Hindi cinema.
Beyond comedy, Asrani displayed versatility by working across genres and languages, including Gujarati and Rajasthani films. He also directed a few Hindi and Gujarati movies.
Over the years, he formed memorable on-screen pairings with stars such as Mehmood, Rajesh Khanna, and Govinda, linking generations of Bollywood comedy.
He occasionally showcased his dramatic side in films like Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar and Chala Murari Hero Banne, the latter of which he also directed.
Asrani’s legacy lies in his ability to adapt through changing times while preserving the warmth and simplicity that defined his artistry.
Further details regarding his demise are awaited.
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