Veteran actor and comedian Govardhan Asrani, fondly known simply as Asrani, passed away on Monday at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness. According to Indian media, his last rites were performed at the Santacruz Crematorium in Mumbai.

Just hours before his passing, Asrani had shared a heartfelt Diwali message on social media, wishing his fans joy and light—an act that now stands as his final public gesture.

A graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, Asrani began his career in the mid-1960s and went on to feature in more than 350 films across Hindi, Gujarati, and Rajasthani cinema. Over a remarkable five-decade career, he became one of Indian cinema's most beloved comic icons, celebrated for his impeccable timing, expressive face, and effortless charm.

Though he started with supporting and serious roles, Asrani's innate gift for comedy soon shone through. The 1970s and 1980s saw him emerge as a household name, portraying the endearing fool, the anxious clerk, and the witty sidekick with equal ease. His portrayal of the bumbling jailor parodying Hitler in "Sholay" (1975) remains one of the most memorable comic turns in Hindi film history.

Beyond comedy, Asrani also showcased his versatility with performances in films such as "Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar" and "Chala Murari Hero Banne", the latter of which he also directed. His work extended beyond Hindi cinema—he directed several Gujarati films and continued to act well into the 2000s, bridging generations of audiences.

He shared screen space with legendary stars like Rajesh Khanna, Mehmood, and later Govinda, forming some of Bollywood's most enduring comic partnerships.

Asrani's death marks the end of an era for Hindi film comedy—a performer whose laughter, humility, and consistency defined a golden age of Indian cinema.

His final on-screen appearance was in the 2023 film "Dream Girl 2".

Further details surrounding his illness and passing are awaited.