'Sholay's Iconic 'Jailer', Govardhan Asrani Passes Away At 84, Know Exact Cause Behind His Death

India has witnessed a wave of comedians rise to fame in recent years. But for decades, it was Asrani who brought smiles to millions of faces in the ‘70s and ‘80s. Whether it was his effortless humour, impeccable timing, and unforgettable characters, he had made a special place in the hearts of his fans. Especially as the hysterical role as the eccentric ‘Jailer’ in Sholay, or performances in Bawarchi, Chupke Chupke, Abhimaan, and more continue to bring smiles to the faces of fans. However, today the laughter icon has said farewell to the world, leaving behind a permanent void in Bollywood that can never be filled.

What led to Govardhan Asrani's death at 84? 

Veteran actor, Govardhan Asrani passed away in Mumbai on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the age of 84. His nephew confirmed the news of his demise and revealed the icon's last rites were performed at the Santacruz Crematorium. According to his personal assistant, Babubhai, Asrani was admitted to Bharatiya Arogya Nidhi Hospital in Juhu four days ago due to age-related health complications. After a few hours, his condition worsened, and he passed away. In his words to India Today: 

“From what the doctors told us, there was fluid accumulation in his lungs. He passed away today, October 20, around 3:30 p.m."

Asrani's family decided to conduct the funeral quietly and honoured Asrani's wish to “go in peace” without turning his passing into an event. His wife, Manju Asrani, and other family members are expected to release an official statement soon. 

Asrani wished ‘Happy Diwali’ to fans hours before his sudden demise 

Asrani's final moments were as humble as his life. Despite being one of Bollywood’s most recognizable faces, he always maintained a low-key lifestyle away from the media spotlight. Just hours before his demise, he shared Diwali 2025 wishes on his Instagram story, which has now left fans heartbroken. According to some online reports, Asrani had one son, Naveen Asrani, who is reportedly a dentist based in Ahmedabad. He was a native of Jaipur and often credited his family for his simple upbringing.

More about actor-comedian, Govardhan Asrani 

Govardhan Asrani was born on January 1, 1941, in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Asrani, who came from a Sindhi Hindu family and found his passion for acting early in life. He completed his schooling at St. Xavier’s and briefly at All India Radio before moving to Mumbai to chase his dreams. Filmmakers such as Kishore Sahu and Hrishikesh Mukherjee encouraged him to join the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, in the 1960s, and he graduated in 1966. Asrani allegedly made his debut in Hare Kaanch Ki Choodiyan in 1967. However, it was Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Satyakam in 1969 that brought him into the limelight. The actor later worked in over 350 films, including Bawarchi, Namak Haraam, Mehbooba, Sholay, and more.

We share our heartfelt condolences to Govardhan Asrani's family in this difficult time.

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