- By Swati Singh
- Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:30 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
PM Narendra Modi has paid a heartfelt tribute to Veteran actor Govardhan Asrani who passed away on Monday, October 20, at the age of 84. Asrani, perhaps best remembered for his iconic role as the quirky jailer in Sholay, leaves behind a cinematic legacy spanning over five decades and more than 350 films. He became a household name in Hindi cinema, known for his effortless comic timing and expressive performances that allowed him to seamlessly navigate between humour, satire and emotional depth.
Mourning the loss, PM Modi wrote on X, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Govardhan Asrani Ji. A gifted entertainer and a truly versatile artist, he entertained audiences across generations. He particularly added joy and laughter to countless lives through his unforgettable performances. His contribution to Indian cinema will always be cherished. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti."
Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Govardhan Asrani Ji. A gifted entertainer and a truly versatile artist, he entertained audiences across generations. He particularly added joy and laughter to countless lives through his unforgettable performances. His contribution to Indian…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 21, 2025
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis also paid tribute on X, remembering the veteran for his comedic brilliance and enduring body of work. He wrote, “Deeply saddened by the demise of the legendary actor Govardhan Asrani ji. His unmatched versatility and unique sense of humour brought joy and laughter to millions."
ALSO READ: Veteran Actor And Comedian Asrani Dies At 84, Fans Remember His Iconic Roles
"From the iconic jailer in Sholay to memorable roles in Chupke Chupke, Golmaal, Aap Ki Kasam, Abhimaan, Baton Baton Mein, Chhoti Si Baat, Dhamaal and many more, his performances have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. My humble tributes to him and deepest condolences to his family and millions of fans. Om Shanti," he continued.
Deeply saddened by the demise of the legendary actor Govardhan Asrani ji. His unmatched versatility and unique sense of humor brought joy and laughter to millions. From the iconic jailer in Sholay to memorable roles in Chupke Chupke, Golmaal, Aap Ki Kasam, Abhimaan, Baton Baton… pic.twitter.com/yK3JGnZRhN
— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) October 20, 2025
Govardhan Asrani to return in Two Movies In 2026
The late actor's final performances will be seen posthumously in two upcoming 2026 films, Priyadarshan's Bhooth Bangla and Haiwaan. These films, which also star Akshay Kumar, mark a final cinematic collaboration in the tradition of their cult comedy hits like Hera Pheri and Bhagam Bhag, giving audiences one last chance to enjoy Asrani's timeless humor on the big screen.
ALSO READ: Akshay Kumar Is 'Speechless' After Asrani's Death: 'Shared Warmest Hug At Haiwaan Shoot'
On Monday, Akshay Kumar also paid his heartfelt tribute to Asrani. He wrote on X, "Speechless with grief at the passing of Asrani ji. We had just shared the warmest of hugs just a week back at the shoot of Haiwaan. Bahot pyare insaan the… he had the most legendary comic timing. From all my cult films Hera Pheri to Bhagam Bhag to De Dana Dan, Welcome and now our unreleased Bhooth Bangla and Haiwaan."