Legendary actor Govardhan Asrani, fondly known simply as Asrani, passed away on October 20, 2025, in Mumbai. The veteran performer, who had not been keeping well for the past few days, was admitted to Bharatiya Arogya Nidhi Hospital in suburban Juhu four days ago.
Confirming the news, Asrani’s manager Babubhai Thiba told PTI, “He was a bit unwell. He was admitted following breathing issues. He passed away today at 3:00 PM. We were told by the doctors that water had accumulated in his lungs.”
Asrani’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which he worked with some of the biggest stars and directors in Indian cinema—from Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan to Aamir Khan. Trained at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), he was best known for his comic brilliance but also proved his versatility in serious and negative roles.
While his contribution to Hindi cinema is widely celebrated, few may know that Asrani also featured in a Punjabi film, Yaariyan (2008), directed by Deepak Grewal. The film starred Gurdas Maan, Bhumika Chawla, Farida Jalal, and Gulshan Grover, with Asrani playing the role of Dr. Palta.
Asrani began his Hindi film journey with “Hare Kaanch Ki Churiyan” (1967) and rose to fame with “Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar.” His performances in classics like “Chhoti Si Baat,” “Bawarchi,” “Abhimaan,” “Bandish,” “Rafoo Chakkar,” “Pati Patni Aur Woh,” and “Chupke Chupke” remain unforgettable.
A favourite of filmmakers Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Gulzar, Asrani appeared in several of their timeless films including “Mere Apne,” “Koshish,” and “Parichay.” In the 2000s, he found renewed popularity with Priyadarshan’s comedies such as Hera Pheri, Hulchul, Chup Chup Ke, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal.
He also explored direction with the 1977 film “Chala Murari Hero Banne” and surprised audiences by taking on darker roles in films like “Chaitali” and “Koshish.”
In a 2017 interview with PTI, Asrani reflected on his enduring love for theatre and candidly commented on the changing face of cinema:
“It’s good that people are experimenting with cinema. They are trying to do serious and soulful cinema but such films don’t stay in theatres for long. People ultimately go and watch Salman, Shah Rukh, and Aamir Khan films. Quality cinema is not changing anything.”
The actor’s last rites were performed this evening at Santacruz crematorium, attended by close family and friends. “We did not inform anyone about his demise as it was his wish that we should keep it a private thing,” Thiba shared.
A powerhouse of talent, humility, and laughter — Asrani leaves behind an unparalleled legacy that defined generations of Indian comedy.
May the departed soul rest in peace.
