Mumbai: Legendary Bollywood actor and comedian Asrani passed away at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness in Mumbai, family sources confirmed.
According to reports, the veteran actor had been unwell for several months and was undergoing treatment at a local hospital, where he breathed his last on Monday morning.
Asrani rose to iconic fame with his unforgettable role as the “Jailer” in the 1975 classic film Sholay. His famous dialogue, “Hum Angrezon ke zamane ke jailer hain” (“I am a jailer from the British era”), remains etched in the hearts of movie lovers to this day.
Throughout his illustrious career, Asrani appeared in over 300 films, leaving his mark in hits like Aap Ki Kasam, Chupke Chupke, Namak Haraam, Chhoti Bahu, and Judaai.
Born in Jaipur, Rajasthan, in 1940, Asrani began his film journey in the 1960s. His unique style, expressive eyes behind his trademark glasses, and trademark comic timing made him one of Bollywood’s most beloved comedians.
Celebrities and fans across India have expressed deep sorrow over his passing. Filmmakers and co-stars paid heartfelt tributes on social media, calling his death an “irreparable loss” to Indian cinema and remembering him as a timeless legend of laughter.
