Govardhan Asrani, the veteran Bollywood actor fondly known as Asrani, has passed away at the age of 84. He breathed his last in Mumbai on October 20, 2025, after suffering from a prolonged illness. The news was confirmed by his nephew, Ashok Asrani. Asrani's last rites were performed at the Santacruz crematorium in Mumbai.
Asrani, born on January 3, 1941, was a common figure in movies directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Priyadarshan. His career spanned over five decades, during which he acted in over 350 Hindi films. He was known for his comedic timing and unique style, which made him a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
While Asrani played lead roles in a few Hindi films like Chala Murari Hero Banne and Salaam Memsaab, and in Gujarati films from 1972 to 1984, he was perhaps most widely recognized and fondly remembered for his portrayal of the iconic jailer in Ramesh Sippy's Sholay. His portrayal of the character became etched in the memories of generations of film lovers, and the line "Hum angrezon ke zamaane ke jailor hain" is still popular.
Asrani's contribution to Bollywood is immense, having worked alongside many industry legends. His versatility allowed him to adapt to various genres, showcasing his range as an actor. Apart from Sholay, he delivered memorable performances in films like Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Dhamaal, and Bunty Aur Babli 2. He also played character roles in 25 films with Rajesh Khanna as the lead between 1972 and 1991. In Hindi films, he played several comic roles from 1966 to 2014 and played a supporting actor's role as the close friend of the lead hero in many films between 1972 and 1995.
Asrani also directed six films between 1974 and 1997. From 1988 to 1993, he served as a director for the Film Institute in Pune.
The news of his death came as a surprise to many, as he had shared Diwali wishes on Instagram earlier that day. The film fraternity remembers him not only for his talent but also for his warmth and dedication to the craft. His sudden demise has left fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a cherished artist. Asrani's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors.
