Bollywood veteran Govardhan Asrani, fondly known simply as Asrani, passed away on Monday at the age of 84 after a brief illness. The beloved actor, who entertained audiences for more than five decades with his remarkable comic timing and unforgettable characters, breathed his last at a hospital in Mumbai.
According to his manager, Babubhai Thiba, Asrani had been admitted to Bharatiya Arogya Nidhi Hospital in Juhu four days ago due to breathing problems. “He was not keeping well and had difficulty in breathing. The doctors told us that water had accumulated in his lungs. He passed away at around 3 PM,” Thiba said.
The news of Asrani’s death has left the entire film industry and his countless admirers across the country in deep sorrow. Many remember him as the eccentric jailer from “Sholay” (1975) who delivered the unforgettable line, “Hum angrezon ke zamaane ke jailer hain.” The role, inspired by Charlie Chaplin’s “The Great Dictator,” remains one of Indian cinema’s most iconic comic performances. 
Over his long and successful career, Asrani acted in more than 300 films, working with nearly every major star—from Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan to Aamir Khan and Salman Khan. Though trained at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), he found his niche in comedy and became one of Hindi cinema’s most dependable comic actors.
Asrani’s early recognition came from the film “Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar”, where his natural humour caught everyone’s attention. His pairing with leading stars and his ability to blend into any story made him a favourite of both filmmakers and audiences. In movies like “Guddi,” “Namak Haram,” “Chhoti Si Baat,” “Bawarchi,” “Abhimaan,” “Do Ladke Dono Kadke,” and “Bandish,” Asrani brought warmth, wit, and relatability to the screen.
He shared a close professional bond with directors Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Gulzar, both of whom often featured him in their films. His performances in Gulzar’s “Mere Apne,” “Koshish,” and “Parichay” showcased his ability to adapt to sensitive and serious roles as well.
In the 1970s and 1980s, Asrani was a familiar face in almost every major Hindi film. Whether as the hero’s friend, the lovable fool, or the confused office worker, he became a symbol of good-hearted humour. His performances in “Chupke Chupke,” “Rafoo Chakkar,” “Balika Badhu,” “Heeralal Pannalal,” and “Pati Patni Aur Woh” are still remembered fondly by audiences.
Even as cinema evolved over the decades, Asrani remained relevant. In the 2000s, he worked with director Priyadarshan in several hit comedies such as “Hera Pheri,” “Hulchul,” “Chup Chup Ke,” “Bhool Bhulaiyaa,” and “Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal.” His ability to connect with new generations proved that true talent never fades.
Apart from acting, Asrani also tried his hand at direction with the film “Chala Murari Hero Banne,” which was appreciated for its simplicity and charm. On rare occasions, he played against type, taking on serious or negative characters in films like “Chaitali” and “Koshish.”
