Veteran actor-comedian Asrani dies at 84

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): Veteran Bollywood actor and comedian Govardhan Asrani, fondly known as Asrani, passed away on Monday at the age of 84. Born in Jaipur, Rajasthan, during British colonial rule, Asrani appeared in over 350 films over a career spanning more than five decades.

The legendary comedian, who rose to fame with “Mere Apne” in the early 1970s had been battling age-related ailments. Just hours before his demise, Asrani had shared Diwali greetings with his fans on social media, spreading warmth and positivity as always.

His last rites were performed at Santacruz Crematorium in Mumbai, with close family members and well-wishers in attendance.

Asrani became a household name with his unforgettable portrayal of the eccentric jailer in the 1975 blockbuster “Sholay,” a film that turned 50 this year. Though his screen time was short, his hilarious performance and iconic dialogue — “Hum Angrezon ke zamaane ke jailer hain” — earned him a permanent place in Indian cinema history.

Over the years, Asrani worked with nearly every major filmmaker and actor in Hindi cinema, mastering both comedy and character roles with effortless charm. His impeccable timing, expressive face and endearing screen presence made him one of Bollywood’s most loved performers.

In August, during Sholay’s golden jubilee celebrations, Asrani had fondly recalled how audiences still remembered his iconic jailer role. “There isn’t a single event where someone doesn’t ask me to say my dialogues from Sholay. It’s all because of Sippy Saab’s direction and Salim-Javed’s writing,” he had said.

Asrani’s passing marks the end of an era in Hindi cinema — an era defined by laughter, warmth and timeless entertainment. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless smiles he brought to audiences across generations.