Veteran actor-comedian Govardhan Asrani, fondly known as Asrani, passed away on Monday at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness. His death has left the film industry in mourning, with actor Akshay Kumar among those deeply affected by the loss. Akshay, who recently shot with Asrani for their upcoming film Haiwaan, shared an emotional tribute on social media.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Akshay expressed his grief, writing, “Speechless with grief at the passing of Asrani ji. We had just shared the warmest of hugs a week back during the shoot of Haiwaan. Bahot pyare insaan the… he had the most legendary comic timing.”
Akshay reflected on their long-standing collaboration, recalling films like Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Bhagam Bhag, De Dana Dan, Welcome, and their yet-to-be-released films Bhoot Bangla and Haiwaan, both directed by Priyadarshan. “I had worked and learned so much from him. What an absolute loss to our industry. God bless you Asrani Sir, for giving us a million reasons to laugh. Om Shanti,” he added.
Speechless with grief at the passing of Asrani ji. We had just shared the warmest of hugs just a week back at the shoot of Haiwaan. Bahot pyare insaan the…he had the most legendary comic timing. From all my cult films Hera Pheri to Bhagam Bhag to De Dana Dan, Welcome and now our… pic.twitter.com/yo7wXnGO1Z
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) October 20, 2025
The actor also shared a nostalgic photo of Asrani riding a scooty with Akshay sitting behind — a moment captured from one of their recent shoots.
According to his manager, Babubhai Thiba, Asrani passed away at 3 PM at Arogya Nidhi Hospital in Juhu. His last rites were performed at Santacruz Crematorium. He is survived by his wife, actress Manju Asrani, his sister, and nephew. The couple had no children.
Also Read: PM Narendra Modi’s Condolences to Asrani’s Family: A Loss for Indian Cinema!
With a career spanning over five decades and more than 350 films, Asrani leaves behind a legacy of laughter and unforgettable performances. From his iconic role as the jail warden in Sholay to his more recent appearances in Bhool Bhulaiyaa and Dhamaal, his presence will be deeply missed in Indian cinema.
