Veteran Actor And Director Asrani Passes Away At 84, Family Issues Statement
Updated on: 21 October, 2025 10:13 AM IST |Shweta Shah
Veteran actor Govardhan Asrani passes away at 84
Veteran actor Govardhan Asrani, who was known for his role as an eccentric jailor in Sholay, passed away on Monday after suffering from a prolonged illness. He was 84 years old. Popularly known as Asrani, the late superstar made everyone laugh with his impeccable comic timing.
The actor`s manager, Babu Bhai Thiba, confirmed the same to ANI and said, “Asrani passed away today at 3 pm at Arogya Nidhi Hospital, Juhu.”
His family also issued an official statement, sharing the heartbreaking news, which read, “Our beloved, the one who brought smiles to everyone’s faces, Asrani ji is no longer among us. His passing is an irreparable loss for both Hindi cinema and our hearts. The indelible mark he left through his performances will remain eternal. May God grant peace to his soul. Om Shanti.”
More about Asrani`s career
The veteran star was born on January 1, 1941, in Jaipur. After completing his education, he became a voiceover artist with All India Radio. He moved to Mumbai in 1962 to pursue his passion for cinema after training under Sahitya Kalabhai Thakkar.
An accidental encounter with filmmaker Hrishikesh Mukherjee inspired him to join the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, from where he graduated in 1966.
Despite his training, the opportunities for him were scarce. He went on to appear in supporting roles in a few films like Hum Kahan Ja Rahe Hain, Hare Kanch Ki Chooriyan, Umang, and Satyakam; however, Asrani found it tough to make ends meet.
It was the 1971 release Guddi that made him a household name.
Asrani later went on to appear in several Hindi and Gujarati movies like Bawarchi, Namak Haraam, Chupke Chupke, Abhimaan, Chala Murari Hero Banne, Pati Patni Aur Woh, Parichay, Chhoti Si Baat, Rafoo Chakkar, Khoon Pasina, Alaap, Amdavad No Rikshawalo, Saat Qaidi, Sansar Chakra, and Pankhi No Mal, among others.
His most iconic role remains to be the eccentric jailor in the cult classic Sholay.
Asrani also directed six films throughout his glorious career. He was last seen in the 2023 comedy Non Stop Dhamaal. His last project was with Priyadarshan in Akshay Kumar`s Bhoot Bangla.
The actor is survived by his wife, Manju Asrani. Radio City extends heartfelt condolences to his friends and family. Rest in peace, legend. You will be missed.
ADVERTISEMENT
Which is your favorite Dharmendra movie?
ADVERTISEMENT
