- By Parina Taneja
- Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:42 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Legendary Bollywood actor and comedian Asrani (Goyardhan Asrani) has passed away at the age of 84. The veteran actor, known for his prolific career spanning over five decades and unforgettable comic timing, reportedly breathed his last earlier today in Mumbai after prolonged illness. His last rites were performed at Santacruz Crematorium in the presence of close friends and family.
Asrani established himself as one of Hindi cinema’s most beloved character actors, with a filmography that boasts over 300 movies. He became a staple of 1970s and 80s cinema, seamlessly transitioning between roles as a comic relief, sidekick, and antagonist. His most iconic performance remains his portrayal of the hapless and perpetually flustered Jailor in the 1975 classic Sholay, famous for the legendary dialogue "Hum angrezon ke zamaane ke jailor hain!"
Throughout his long career, he worked with nearly every major director and star, including Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Gulzar, often anchoring high-stakes dramas with moments of much-needed levity. His contribution extended beyond acting, having also worked as a director.
Actor-director Govardhan Asrani, popularly known as 'Asrani' passed away in Mumbai today after a prolonged illness. His last rites were performed at Santacruz Crematorium.
— ANI (@ANI) October 20, 2025
Pictures from the Crematorium where his family gathered for the last rites. pic.twitter.com/hDzUTmRI7l
Asrani's death marks a significant loss for the Indian film industry, but his legacy of infectious laughter and memorable, relatable characters will continue to be cherished by fans across generations. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced shortly by his family.
Fans have been sharing their memorable moments from his films on social media to pay tribute to the legendary actor.
Om Shanti Asrani ji 🙏 pic.twitter.com/aq0OZfkIFz
— Rohit Jaiswal (@rohitjswl01) October 20, 2025
Asrani
— Shiv Aroor (@ShivAroor) October 20, 2025
1941-2025 pic.twitter.com/yDiaWMI7lf
Govardhan Asrani has passed away at 84.
— Abhijit Majumder (@abhijitmajumder) October 20, 2025
Extraordinary career spanning more than 350 films, which made millions roll in laughter.
Keep making the universe smile, Asrani saab. Om shanti. pic.twitter.com/mL5mk9lRPJ
Though the Jailor's shift is over, the indelible mark of Asrani's infectious laughter remains a timeless treasure in the annals of Indian cinema.