Govardhan Asrani Dies at 84

Veteran actor Govardhan Asrani — known simply as Asrani — died in Mumbai on October 20, 2025, aged 84, after a prolonged illness and brief hospitalisation marked by breathing complications and fluid in his lungs. An FTII graduate, his five-decade career spanned more than 350 films, from the iconic jailer in Sholay to nuanced roles such as Chandar in Abhiman, and included recent work on projects like Haiwaan and other unreleased films. True to his final wish, his family held a private Diwali funeral and performed last rites at Santacruz Crematorium, informing the public only after the ceremony. The family released a statement calling his death an “irreparable loss” and asked for peace for his soul; he is survived by his wife, Manju, and other family members. Political leaders and film figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar and Anupam Kher, paid tribute to his comic timing, warmth and versatility. Colleagues and filmmakers remembered him as a humble, generous presence on set.