Noida : As the nation celebrated Diwali in lights and joy, Bollywood lost one of its brightest stars. Veteran actor and comedian Govardhan Asrani passed away at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, warmth, and unforgettable performances.
PM Modi mourns the loss
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
Deeply saddened by the demise of Shri Govardhan Asrani Ji. A talented entertainer and a truly versatile artist, he brought joy and laughter to countless lives through his memorable performances. His contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered. My condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute, saying:
The demise of actor Asrani Ji is deeply saddening. He enriched Indian cinema throughout his life and brought smiles to millions. May God give strength to his family and admirers in this moment of grief. Om Shanti
A career spanning five decades
In a remarkable career spanning over five decades, Asrani appeared in more than 350 films, leaving his mark in every role he played. He is remembered for classics like Mere Apne, Koshish, Bawarchi, Parichay, Abhimaan, Chupke Chupke, Chhoti Si Baat and Rafu Chakkar. His portrayal of the comical jailer in Sholay remains one of the most iconic performances in Indian cinema.
A life of simplicity and smiles
Off-screen, Asrani was known for his humility, kindness, and ever-smiling nature. His passing marks **the end of an era in Indian cinema. Through his laughter and simplicity, he carved a place in the hearts of generations — a legacy that will continue to inspire for years to come.