Mumbai: Veteran actor Govardhan Asrani, widely known and loved as Asrani, passed away on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the age of 84. The actor, best known for his iconic role as the jailer in the classic film Sholay, breathed his last in Mumbai following a prolonged illness.
Born on January 1, 1941, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Asrani's career in Bollywood spanned over five decades, during which he acted in over 350 Hindi films. His versatility allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, from leading roles to comedic and supporting roles, earning him a special place in the hearts of Indian cinema lovers.
Asrani began learning acting in the early 1960s and later trained at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. He got his first break in Hindi films in 1967, playing a friend of the actor Biswajeet in Hare Kaanch Ki Choodiyan. His career gained momentum in the 1970s with memorable performances in films like Mere Apne, Koshish, Bawarchi, Parichay, and Abhimaan. He also played lead roles in Chala Murari Hero Banne and Salaam Memsaab. From 1972 to 1984, he was the main lead hero in Gujarati films and then played character roles from 1985 to 2012.
While he was a common figure in movies directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Priyadarshan, Asrani's most memorable role remains the hilarious jailer in Sholay (1975). His comedic timing and delivery in the film became legendary, and the character is still fondly remembered and imitated today.
In addition to Sholay, Asrani starred in numerous other successful films, including Hera Pheri, Chup Chup Ke, Hulchul, Deewane Huye Paagal, Garam Masala, Dhamaal, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Bol Bachchan. He was an integral part of comedies by Sajid Nadiadwala and Priyadarshan after 2000. He also showcased his serious acting skills in films like Kyun Ki and Muqabla.
Asrani also contributed to the film industry as a director, having directed six films between 1974 and 1997. He also worked as a voice artist at All India Radio, Jaipur.
Asrani married actress Manju Bansal, and they acted together in several films, including Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar and Namak Haram.
The veteran actor’s death was confirmed by his nephew, Anand Asrani. Asrani’s last rites were performed on Monday at the Santacruz crematorium in Mumbai. According to media reports, Asrani had been admitted to Bharatiya Arogya Nidhi Hospital in Juhu four days prior to his death due to fluid accumulation in his lungs.
The film industry and fans mourned the loss of a cherished artist. Tributes poured in from across the industry, with many recalling fond memories of working with him and the joy he brought to film sets. Asrani's contribution to Indian cinema is undeniable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors.
