Bollywood has lost one of its most cherished faces. Govardhan Asrani, forever remembered as the quirky jailer in ‘Sholay,’ passed away on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the age of 84. The veteran actor breathed his last at Arogya Nidhi Hospital in Mumbai after battling prolonged age-related health issues. Staying true to his wish for a private goodbye, his family held a quiet cremation the same evening at Santacruz Crematorium.
About Asrani’s wife, Manju
Asrani is survived by his wife, Manju Asrani (formerly Manju Bansal), who also had a flourishing career in films during the 1970s and 1980s. The couple first met on the sets of ‘Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar’ and ‘Namak Haraam,’ where they bonded over their love for cinema. Manju went on to appear in films like ‘Kabeela,’ ‘Tapasya,’ and ‘Chandi Sona’ before turning director in the 1990s. Together, they shared a life deeply rooted in the world of film, both in front of and behind the camera.
Govardhan Asrani’s net worth
Asrani’s decades-long career made him a beloved household name, and he also managed to build a substantial fortune. Reports from Asianet and Zee News suggest he left assets worth around Rs 40–50 crore for his wife, Manju. His wealth came from a mix of acting in films, directing, brand endorsements, and appearances in web series.
Tributes poured in from fans and leaders
The news of Asrani’s passing triggered an outpouring of grief across the film industry and among fans. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Govardhan AsrJi. 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.”Many actors and celebrities also paid heartfelt tributes, remembering his iconic roles and the happiness he brought to audiences.
Govardhan Asrani’s final film with Priyadarshan
Before his passing, Asrani had reportedly completed filming portions for Priyadarshan’s upcoming film ‘Haiwaan,’ which stars Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan. Akshay recently paid tribute to the late actor, recalling that they had shot together just a week before Asrani’s death. This shows the actor’s dedication to his craft right until the end.DISCLAIMER: Figures presented in this article are derived from various public sources and are considered approximate unless explicitly noted. We strive for accuracy and may include direct input from celebrities or their teams when available. Your feedback is always welcome at entertainment@timesinternet.in.
