Bollywood mourns the loss of one of its most beloved figures, Asrani, who passed away in Mumbai at the age of 84 after battling a prolonged illness. Known for his impeccable comic timing and versatile performances, Asrani left behind a legacy spanning decades in Indian cinema.
Born on January 1, 1941, in Jaipur, Asrani began his artistic journey with All India Radio as a voice artist. His passion for acting led him to Mumbai in 1962, where he enrolled in the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. He graduated in 1966 and soon set out to carve a niche in the film industry.
His initial years in cinema were marked by smaller roles until his breakthrough came in 1971 when Hrishikesh Mukherjee cast him in the film Guddi. The role brought Asrani critical recognition and opened doors to numerous opportunities in mainstream cinema.
Among his most iconic portrayals was that of the eccentric jailer in the 1975 classic Sholay. His performance, a humorous parody of authoritarian figures, remains etched in the minds of audiences even decades later. The character added a unique comic flavor to an otherwise intense drama and became a cultural touchstone.
In addition to acting in over 350 films, Asrani also explored direction, helming six movies during his career. He is survived by his wife, actress Manju Asrani. His final rites were held at the Santacruz Crematorium in Mumbai, where family, friends, and admirers gathered to bid farewell to a legend whose laughter and legacy will live on through his films.