New Delhi: Veteran actor Govardhan Asrani, known simply as Asrani, passed away at the age of 84 on Monday around 4 PM after suffering from a prolonged illness. The details surrounding his death remain undisclosed, leaving both fans and the film industry in mourning. His sudden demise came shortly after he had shared Diwali wishes on social media earlier the same day.
Asrani had an illustrious career, appearing in over 350 Hindi films. He is fondly remembered for his iconic portrayal of the eccentric jailer in the 1975 classic Sholay. Scriptwriters Salim-Javed inspired his character with Adolf Hitler, providing Asrani with a book featuring Hitler’s image to help him embody the look and mannerisms. Asrani took this challenge seriously, studying Hitler’s tone through recordings at the Film Institute in Pune, where he trained. His delivery of the now-famous line “Hum angrezon ke zamane ke jailer hain” (“We are jailers from the British era”) received resounding applause from audiences. This single scene showcased his comic brilliance and cemented his status as a household name.
Early Life and Entry into Films
Born on January 1, 1941, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Asrani grew up in a middle-class Sindhi Hindu family. He took little interest in business or academics, opting instead to pursue the arts. During his studies at Rajasthan College, he worked as a voice artist at All India Radio.
In the early 1960s, he moved to Mumbai and received training at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, graduating in 1966. Asrani made his film debut in Hare Kaanch Ki Choodiyan in 1967. His breakthrough role came from director Hrishikesh Mukherjee in Satyakam (1969), which launched his career in mainstream cinema.
The Golden Era: 1970s to 1980s
The 1970s and 1980s marked the apex of Asrani’s career. He starred in over 100 films in each decade, a significant achievement in Hindi cinema. He became a mainstay in works featuring Rajesh Khanna, appearing in 25 of his films, including notable hits such as Bawarchi, Namak Haraam, and Mehbooba.
His memorable comic performances were showcased in films like:
- Chupke Chupke
- Roti
- Chhoti Si Baat
- Rafoo Chakkar
- Balika Badhu
- Pati Patni Aur Woh
He earned two Filmfare Awards for Best Comedian for Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar (1974) and Balika Badhu (1977).
Beyond Comedy: Lead Roles and Direction
While primarily known for his comedic roles, Asrani also starred in lead roles, including Chala Murari Hero Banne (1977), which he directed as well. Over his career, he directed a total of six films between 1974 and 1997. In Gujarati cinema, he was a leading figure from 1972 to 1984 before transitioning to character roles, with his song “Hu Amdavad No Rikshawalo” remaining iconic in Gujarat.
Career Challenges and Reinvention
As the trend for comic sidekicks waned in the late ’80s, Asrani’s prominence temporarily diminished. However, he made a strong comeback in the ’90s and 2000s by collaborating with notable directors such as David Dhawan, Priyadarshan, and Rohit Shetty. He starred in:
- Hera Pheri
- Chup Chup Ke
- Garam Masala
- Malamaal Weekly
- Bhagam Bhag
- Bol Bachchan
He also took on a serious role in Kyun Ki (2005), demonstrating his versatility.
Personal Life and Legacy
Asrani was married to actress Manju Bansal, and the couple appeared together in several films, including Asrani’s production Hum Nahin Sudhrenge (1980). He served as a director at FTII Pune from 1988 to 1993 and briefly operated a successful production business.
His last notable appearances included the web series Permanent Roommates in 2018 and in the TV show Partners Trouble Ho Gayi Double, where he played a police chief.
Asrani’s contribution to Indian cinema is significant, from his comic performances to his nuanced supporting roles, reflecting the evolution of Bollywood over several decades. With his passing, the industry mourns the loss of a legendary figure who brought joy to countless audiences through his work.
