Dharmendra’s Emotional Farewell to Asrani: Bollywood Mourns the Loss of a Comedy Legend

“Even in my last moments, I’ll do something memorable.”
These words echo the spirit of legendary Bollywood actor Asrani, whose passing on October 20, 2025, left the film industry and fans in deep sorrow. Veteran actor Dharmendra was visibly heartbroken upon hearing the news and took to social media to pay a touching tribute to his dear friend and colleague.

Dharmendra wrote, “Asrani, the news of your departure has broken my heart. You were not only a brilliant artist but also a true human being and a beloved companion. People like you come into our lives only once.”
According to reports, Asrani passed away due to breathing difficulties after being hospitalized in Mumbai for several days. Dharmendra recalled their last meeting at a film event, where Asrani was his usual cheerful self, cracking jokes and spreading smiles. “He told me, ‘Dharmji, keep smiling—that’s the greatest gift of life.’ Today, those words echo in my heart,” Dharmendra shared.

Asrani’s unique comedic timing, innocent face, and kind heart made him a household name. Dharmendra remembered how Asrani could light up any scene and prayed for his soul, “May God grant Asrani a place at His feet. I will never forget you, my brother. Your laughter and friendship will always live in my heart.”

The news of Asrani’s passing sent shockwaves across Bollywood. Social media was flooded with tributes, and fans reminisced about the man who made the entire nation laugh—now leaving everyone in tears. Asrani’s body was brought from the hospital to his modest home in Juhu, Mumbai, which was always filled with laughter and stories. Outside, a somber crowd gathered in silence.

Dharmendra arrived soon after, dressed in a white kurta, tears in his eyes and grief etched on his face. He paid his respects to Asrani’s photograph, hands folded in prayer. The bond between Dharmendra and Asrani went far beyond films—they shared countless hours of laughter and camaraderie off-screen.

Dharmendra recalled how Asrani could always lighten the mood, even during the iconic shooting of “Sholay,” where Asrani’s jailer scene became legendary: “We’re jailers from the British era.” The entire set erupted in laughter, and the scene became immortal in Indian cinema. Dharmendra said, “After that day, I looked forward to every film with Asrani, knowing he would make everyone smile.”

Inside the house, Asrani’s wife Kokila, herself a former actress, was devastated, along with their son Sajan, who kept saying, “Papa said he’d get better.” The atmosphere was deeply emotional as Dharmendra consoled the family, reminding them that Asrani’s legacy would never be forgotten.

Asrani’s career spanned over five decades, beginning with small roles in the 1960s. His first recognition came with the 1967 film “Hare Kanch Ki Chudiyan.” Later, films like “Aaj Aur Kal,” “Hulchul,” and especially “Mere Apne” (1970) established his unique presence. His supporting role in “Bawarchi” (1972) showed his comedic genius, and “Chupke Chupke” the same year further cemented his reputation.

But it was “Sholay” (1975) that made Asrani a star. His jailer character and iconic dialogue became a part of cinematic history. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Asrani appeared in countless films, always leaving a lasting impression, whether as a teacher, policeman, or bumbling servant.

Even as trends changed, Asrani adapted, appearing in TV serials and later in hit comedies like “Hera Pheri,” “Phir Hera Pheri,” “Dhamaal,” “Malamaal Weekly,” “Bhagam Bhag,” “Chup Chup Ke,” and “Welcome.” His famous “Papaji” dialogue from “Dhamaal” continues to circulate on social media as memes.

Dharmendra once said, “Seeing Asrani is like seeing laughter itself come alive.” Asrani believed comedy was not just for entertainment—it was a way to heal hearts. He taught younger actors that true comedy comes from a pure heart. In 2020, Asrani received a Lifetime Achievement Award and humbly said, “I just wanted to make people laugh. I didn’t realize how life passed by.”

His legacy lives on, influencing the next generation of comedians like Rajpal Yadav, Johnny Lever, and Arshad Warsi, who all credit Asrani for paving the way. His comedy was clean, simple, and loved by audiences of all ages.

Dharmendra ended his tribute with a poignant memory: “Once, during a shoot, I was angry. Asrani came over and said, ‘Dharmji, let go of your anger; life is short, you never know who may leave us.’ I laughed then, but today those words ring true.”

Asrani taught everyone that laughter is life’s greatest gift. As the nation mourns, his smile remains his everlasting legacy.

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