The jailor from Sholay is no longer with us: Asrani Passes Away at 84
Image :- Sholay / Digital
Bollywood icon Asrani, Sholay’s legendary jailor, passes away at 84. A golden era of comedy ends.
The jailor from Sholay is no longer with us. Govardhan Asrani, popularly known as Asrani, one of Bollywood’s most loved comedians, passed away at the age of 84. He was admitted to a hospital in Juhu, Mumbai, and breathed his last on October 20. He had been unwell for the past 15 days due to age-related health issues and was hospitalized four days before his demise.
Born on January 1, 1943, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Asrani pursued acting by enrolling in the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, in 1964. He completed his course in 1966 and began his journey to make a mark in Bollywood. However, during his initial 3-4 years, he did not find much success. Things changed dramatically in the 1970s, a decade that proved to be historic for him.
His breakthrough came in 1971 with the film Mere Apne, directed by the legendary Gulzar. His performance caught the attention of audiences and major filmmakers alike. Celebrated directors like Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Gulzar frequently cast him in their films. Though mostly seen in comic and character roles, Asrani’s demand soared sky-high. Between 1970 to 1979, he acted in over 100 films, often playing the hero’s friend or a comic sidekick, becoming a household name.
Asrani shared a deep bond with superstar Rajesh Khanna, with whom he acted in about 25 films, including hits like Bawarchi and Namak Haraam.
Some of Asrani's most iconic films from 1971–1979 include:
Mere Apne
Bawarchi
Parichay
Abhimaan
Palkon Ki Chhaon Mein
Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar
Roti
Chupke Chupke
Chhoti Si Baat
Rafoo Chakkar
Sholay
Balika Badhu
Anurodh
Charas
Phaansi
Heeralal Pannalal
Pati Patni Aur Woh
Hamare Tumhare
His role as the over-the-top jailor in Sholay remains one of the most iconic comic roles in Indian cinema. Despite sharing screen space with megastars like Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan, Asrani managed to carve his own niche with his impeccable comic timing and versatility.
In 1977, he starred in and directed Chala Murari Hero Banne, where he also served as the lead actor and writer. The film was well appreciated by critics. Asrani also showcased his talent in Gujarati films, both as an actor and director.
Post-1984, his demand gradually declined, but he continued doing small yet impactful roles. In the 1990s, he appeared in films like Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Gardish, Taqdeerwala, Gharwali Baharwali, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan.
The 2000s saw a resurgence in Asrani’s popularity, especially in Priyadarshan’s comedy films. He was part of the cult classic Hera Pheri and continued to charm younger audiences through roles in films like:
Chup Chup Ke
Hulchul
Garam Masala
Dhamaal
Malamaal Weekly
Bhagam Bhag
Bhool Bhulaiyaa
De Dana Dan
His dialogue from Deewane Huye Pagal, "Yeh sab kya dekhna pad raha hai, achha hai main andha hoon" continues to be widely used in memes across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), earning it the status of an "evergreen meme dialogue."
Film Fare Awards:
Asrani won the Filmfare Award for Best Comedian for:
Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar (1974)
Balika Badhu (1977)
Before establishing himself in Bollywood, he also worked as a voice artist for All India Radio.
His wife Manju Asrani is also an actress. His son name is Naveen Asrani. The couple had a love marriage and remained close throughout their life together.
Following his passing, Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar expressed deep condolences via a heartfelt post on X. The two had shared screen space in many successful comedy films. Two of Asrani's upcoming films, Bhoot Bangla and Haiwaan, featuring Akshay Kumar, are scheduled for release in the coming days.
In this time of grief, may the Almighty grant strength and peace to Asrani’s family and loved ones.
Thank You.
