Tributes are pouring in for Asrani, who passed away on Monday following his prolonged illness. Expressing his deep sadness over the actor's passing, Anupam Kher said in a video message, "Last week I talked to him. He wanted to do a masterclass at my acting school." Anupam Kher, who starred alongside Asrani in many films, such as Taqdeerwala (1995), Chup Chup Ke (2006), and Sanam (1997, acknowledged the latter's reputation as "a great comic actor" among the general public. "However, not many know that he was also a teacher at FTII for many big actors."
Anupam mentioned the personal attributes that made the legendary actor special, calling him a "learned," "jolly" and "large-hearted" person. Anupam also listed out some of the Asrani films that he still remembers, including those by director Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Ramesh Sippy's Sholay. Anupam expressed nostalgia about watching an actor like that grow onscreen over the years. "You see the gradual process of a man getting older, but the spirit of Asrani ji was always be younger," said Anupam. "I know he will be remembered for his work, but I will remember him for the kind of person that he was. Thank you for making the world a better place to live, thank you for making people laugh."
On the other hand, PM Narendra Modi wrote, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Govardhan Asrani Ji. 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. His contribution to Indian cinema will always be cherished. My condolences to his family and admirers."
Meanwhile, singer Adnan Sami acknowledged the late actor's ability to entertain the audience but also made a special note of his "dramatic roles," which are "equally brilliant". The musician also referenced the actor's iconic “Angraizon Ke Zamaanay Ke Jailor” from Sholay as a line that "will be remembered forever!"
The singer also reminisced about his collaboration with the actor on a music video. "I had the honour of working and spending time with him when I requested him to appear in my music video of ‘Lift Karade’ and I too wanted him to reenact his legendary ’Jailor’ character for which he generously agreed. He was so committed that he made sure that every aspect of his getup was from the original makers of the Sholay Movie- i.e The Wig, Moustache and Uniform. His enthusiasm and passion for his work was an example for us all to learn from. He was a thorough gentleman."
Cricketers, ministers, journalists, and so forth also paid their tributes to Asrani, showing his sheer popularity among the masses.
Speaking of which, Kangana Ranaut underscored the actor's massive popularity and acting range. She wrote, "Shri Govardhan Asrani ji was not only an artist but seemed like a part of all our lives and growing up years he was almost a family member through his lively roles and playful characters, he displayed great emotional depth along with impeccable comic timing."
