Veteran Bollywood actor Govardhan Asarani , fondly known as Asarani, passed away at the age of 84 in Mumbai on Monday evening. According to reports, the actor breathed his last around 4 PM after a prolonged illness. The exact cause of death has not yet been revealed.
A native of Jaipur, Rajasthan, Asarani’s demise marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He had a prolific career spanning over five decades and more than 350 Hindi films.
Iconic Career and Legacy
Best remembered for his legendary portrayal of a comical jailer in Sholay, Asarani became one of Bollywood’s most beloved character actors. His performances in popular films like Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Dhamaal, Bunty Aur Babli 2, R… Rajkumar, All The Best, and Welcome further established his versatility and impeccable comic timing.
The news of his passing has left fans and colleagues stunned, especially as the actor had shared Diwali greetings on his Instagram story earlier in the day.
Early Life and Journey in Cinema
Born on January 1, 1941, into a Sindhi Hindu family in Jaipur, Asarani began his acting training under Sahitya Kalabhai Thakkar between 1960 and 1962. Later, on the advice of filmmakers Kishore Sahu and Hrishikesh Mukherjee, he moved to Mumbai to study acting professionally.
While Asarani made his mark in Hindi cinema, he also worked extensively in Gujarati films playing lead roles between 1972 and 1984, followed by notable character roles until 2012. He met actress Manju Bansal during the making of Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar and Namak Haram, and the two later married.
Asarani’s passing leaves behind a timeless cinematic legacy that continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.
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