‘Angrezon ke zamaane ke jailor’ Asrani Leaves Laughter Legacy
Still from Choti si Baat Asrani with Amol Palekar. (Image X.com)
From his iconic “Angrezon ke zamaane ke jailor” role in Sholay to his impeccable comic timing across 375 films, Govardhan Asrani’s passing marks the end of an era in Hindi cinema.
By TRH Features Desk
Mumbai, October 21, 2025 — Veteran Hindi film comedian Govardhan Asrani, fondly known to generations simply as Asrani, passed away at the age of 84 on Monday. The legendary actor, best remembered for his hilarious portrayal of the bumbling British-era jailor in Sholay (1975), leaves behind a five-decade legacy of laughter, versatility, and timeless performances across more than 375 films.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute on X, writing, “A gifted entertainer and a truly versatile artist, he entertained audiences across generations. He particularly added joy and laughter to countless lives through his unforgettable performances.”
Actor Akshay Kumar, who shared screen space with Asrani in several hit comedies including Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhag, De Dana Dan, and Welcome, expressed his grief, saying, “From all my cult films to our unreleased Bhoot Bangla and Haiwaan—I had worked and learned so much from him. What an absolute loss to our industry.”
Singer Adnan Sami remembered Asrani as a “genius of his craft and an artistic treasure,” recalling how the veteran actor recreated his Sholay jailor character for Sami’s iconic Lift Karade music video. “He made sure that every aspect of his getup was from the original makers — the wig, moustache, and uniform. His enthusiasm and passion for his work were an example for us all. He was a thorough gentleman, full of love and grace.”
Born in Jaipur as Govardhan Asrani, he began his artistic journey as a voice artist with All India Radio before training at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). He made his debut in Satyakam and went on to balance comic, dramatic, and character roles with rare finesse.
In his final podcast, recorded on August 9, 2025, for Kahani Zindagi Ki, Asrani reflected on how he landed the role of the jailor in Sholay, his early struggles, and the art of comedy.
Filmfare aptly summed up his cinematic journey: “From comic brilliance to heartfelt drama, Asrani defined versatility in Indian cinema for over five decades.”
With his passing, Indian cinema bids farewell to one of its most beloved and enduring entertainers — the man whose laughter still echoes in every “Angrezon ke zamaane ke jailor!”
Follow The Raisina Hills on WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn
About The Author
