Legendary Actor Asrani: Bollywood Mourns The Comedic Genius Behind Sholay And Over 350 Films
Veteran actor and director Govardhan Asrani, popularly known as Asrani, died on 20 October 2025 at the age of 84, following a prolonged illness.
He was admitted to a Mumbai hospital with breathing complications and succumbed to fluid accumulation in his lungs at 3:00 PM. His last rites were performed at Santacruz Crematorium, attended by close family members.
Born on 1 January 1941 in Jaipur to a middle-class Sindhi Hindu family, Asrani displayed an early passion for acting, choosing it over the family business. He completed his matriculation at St. Xavier’s School and graduated from Rajasthan College, Jaipur, while working as a voice artist at All India Radio, Jaipur to support his studies.
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Asrani’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which he appeared in over 350 Hindi and Gujarati films, seamlessly moving between lead, supporting, comedic, and character roles.
He was particularly beloved for his portrayal of the jailer in Sholay, and in the Gujarati classic Amadavad no Rikshavaro. Asrani also shared a long-standing screen partnership with Rajesh Khanna, appearing together in 25 films between 1972 and 1991.
He began his formal training at the Film Institute in Pune in 1964, graduating in 1966, and made his early mark with the Hindi film Hare Kaanch Ki Choodiyan (1967) and several Gujarati films.
Hrishikesh Mukherjee gave him pivotal supporting roles in Satyakam (1969) and Mere Apne, which established him as one of Hindi cinema’s most reliable character actors.
The 1970s marked the peak of his career, with 101 films to his credit in the decade alone. He became a staple in comedies and supporting roles, working with legendary directors like Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Gulzar, B.R. Chopra, and Basudev Chatterjee.
His iconic comic performances include Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar, Chupke Chupke, Chhoti Si Baat, Rafoo Chakkar, and Balika Badhu, winning him Filmfare Awards for Best Comedian in 1974 and 1977.
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Asrani was also an accomplished director, helming films such as Chala Murari Hero Banne (1977), Hum Nahin Sudhrenge (1980), Amadavad no Rikshavaro (1990), and Udaan (1997), while also contributing memorable songs like “Mannu Bhai Motor Chali Pam” (1978) and “Binati Sun Le Tanik” (1977).
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Asrani continued to dominate Hindi cinema, appearing in 107 films in the 1980s alone, including Hera Pheri, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Bol Bachchan, and De Dana Dan. He also remained active in Gujarati cinema, balancing lead and supporting roles.
In addition to his prolific acting career, Asrani contributed to television and web series, most notably as Narada in Natkhat Narad (1985) and Mikesh’s grandfather in Permanent Roommates (2016). He lent his voice to Zazu in the Hindi version of The Lion King and appeared in several advertisements.
Asrani married actress Manju Bansal, his co-star in films like Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar and Namak Haram, and the couple shared both personal and professional bonds, often acting together in films spanning Hindi and Gujarati cinema.
Known for his impeccable comic timing, versatility, and dedication, Asrani leaves behind an unparalleled legacy in Indian cinema. From playing the lovable jailer in Sholay to mentoring aspiring actors at the Film Institute in Pune, his influence extended far beyond the screen.
Bollywood stars, filmmakers, and fans across India and the world have paid tribute to him, remembering him as a legend, a friend, and a genius whose work brought laughter, emotion, and joy to millions.
Speechless with grief at the passing of Asrani ji. We had just shared the warmest of hugs just a week back at the shoot of Haiwaan. Bahot pyare insaan the…he had the most legendary comic timing. From all my cult films Hera Pheri to Bhagam Bhag to De Dana Dan, Welcome and now our… pic.twitter.com/yo7wXnGO1Z
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) October 20, 2025
Asrani will be remembered as one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema history, a true icon whose films and performances will continue to inspire generations.
