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Veteran Actor and Comedian Asrani Passes Away at 84
Veteran Bollywood actor and comedian Govardhan Asrani, affectionately known as Asrani, passed away on Monday at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness. His last rites were performed at the Santacruz Crematorium, attended by close family members.
Confirming the news, Asrani’s manager Babu Bhai Thiba told ANI, “Asrani passed away today at 3 PM at Arogya Nidhi Hospital, Juhu. He is survived by his wife, sister, and nephew.” Earlier in the day, around 2 PM, a Diwali greeting appeared on Asrani’s Instagram Story, which fans later found heartbreaking, as it was likely posted by his staff or family.
Over a five-decade career, Asrani became one of Hindi cinema’s most loved comedians, known for his flawless comic timing and expressive acting. Having appeared in over 350 films, he rose to prominence in the 1970s with memorable roles in Mere Apne, Bawarchi, Parichay, Chhoti Si Baat, and Rafoo Chakkar. His portrayal of the eccentric jail warden in Sholay remains a timeless pop culture reference.
Beyond acting, Asrani also ventured into writing and direction, earning acclaim for Chala Murari Hero Banne (1977) and Salaam Memsaab (1979). He also made notable contributions to Gujarati cinema.
Asrani is survived by his wife Manju Asrani, his sister, and nephew. The couple had no children.
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