Asrani's death: Family breaks silence after quiet funeral - 'Irreparable loss to Hindi cinema, our hearts'

Veteran actor Asrani’s death sent shock waves in the film industry. The actor, who was originally named Govardhan Asrani, was hospitalized in Mumbai. On Diwali, he breathed his last around 3-4pm in the evening. His last rites took place quietly according to his wishes, avoiding media attention. Asrani’s family breaks silence after quiet funeral In the midst of this, Asrani’s family issued a statement for the first time. His family took to his Instagram account and shared a statement that read, “Our beloved, the one who brought smiles to everyone’s faces, Asrani ji is no more with us. His passing is an irreparable loss to both Hindi theater and our hearts. The indelible mark he left through his performances will remain forever. May God rest his soul.” See post: Asrani’s family shares statement on Instagram. How did Asrani die? Asrani suffered from prolonged illness. While the cause of his death is not yet known, his personal assistant previously shared that the actor had fluid in his lungs. His PA, Babubhai, told India Today: “Asrani sahab was admitted to Bharatiya Arogya Nidhi Hospital in Juhu four days ago. From what the doctors told us, there was fluid (water) accumulation in his lungs. He passed away today, October 20 around 3.30 pm. The last rites have already been completed.” Asrani’s silent funeral His last rites took place at Santacruz Crematorium, Mumbai. It was attended only by his family. Asrani’s manager told news agency ANI, “Asrani passed away today at 3 pm at Arogya Nidhi Hospital, Juhu. He is survived by his wife, sister and nephew.” Asrani’s career Asrani has appeared in more than 350 films in his career spanning decades. He has also acted in Gujarati films apart from Bollywood. He was known for his comedic timing. Some of his best known roles were in films like Bawarchi, Namak Haraam, Chupke Chupke, Abhimaan, Chala Murari Hero Banne, Salaam Memsaab, Pati Patni Aur Woh, Parichay, Chhoti Si Baat, Rafoo Chakkar, Khoon Pasina, Alaap, Amdavad No Rikshawalo, Saat Qaidi, Sansar Chakra and Pankhi No Mal, among others. His most iconic role was in the cult classic Sholay, where he played the role of a jailer. On 50 years of Sholay, Asrani told the BBC earlier this year, “As Sholay completed 50 years, I can tell you—there was not a single function or event where I wasn’t asked to recite those dialogues. It’s all because of Sippy Saab’s direction and Salim-Javed’s writing. I got a chance to learn how to really prepare for a lesser role. saab, I salute you.” Salim-Javed saab. Even after 50 years, people still remember that role and those lines by heart.” Apart from acting, Asrani also made his music and directorial debuts separately. He was last seen in the 2023 film Non Stop Dhamaal.