Remembering Asrani: The veteran Bollywood actor who lit up the 70s and 80s with his comedic roles

Veteran Bollywood actor Govardhan Asrani, known popularly by the mononym Asrani passed away in Mumbai after a brief illness. The actor, who was one of the prominent faces during the 1970s and 1980s, established a place in the hearts of audiences through his portrayal of the eccentric jailer in ‘Sholay.’ He was also best known for his comic roles during that period.

The 84-year-old actor, who also played evergreen characters Namak Haram, and Guddi, was admitted to Bharatiya Arogya Nidhi Hospital in suburban Juhu after he suffered breathing issues, his manager Babubhai Thiba told PTI. “He passed away today at 3:00 PM. We were told by the doctors that water had accumulated in his lungs, “ Babubhai told PTI.

Several actors, including Akshay Kumar, Kajol and Anupam Kher mourned the actor’s loss and shared their tributes on social media. Anupam Kher wrote: 'Dearest AsraniJi! Thank you for making the world a better place to be in with your persona!! On and off screen. We will miss you in physical form! But cinema and your ability to make people laugh will keep you alive for years to come! Om Shanti!'

Asrani had acted in over 300 films in a career spanning over five decades. His dialogue, "Hum angrezon ke zamane ke jailor hai" has achieved a cult status. The comical character in Sholay was modelled after Charlie Chaplin in ‘The Great Dictator.’

Some of his popular films include Bawarchi, Golmaal, Hera Pheri, Chup Chup Ke, Hulchul, Deewane Huye Pagal, Welcome, among others. His last rites were held this evening at Santacruz crematorium, which was attended by family and close friends. "We did not inform anyone about his demise as it was his wish that we should keep it a private thing, Thiba added. Asrani is survived by his wife.