New Delhi, Oct 21 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the loss of esteemed Bollywood veteran Govardhan Asrani, emphasizing that the actor's influence on Indian cinema will be forever valued.

Govardhan Asrani, famously recognized as 'Asrani', passed away at the age of 84 on Sunday (October 21).

In a heartfelt message shared on X, PM Modi stated, "I am deeply saddened by the news of Shri Govardhan Asrani Ji's demise. A remarkable entertainer and an incredibly talented artist, he brought joy to audiences of all ages. His unforgettable performances filled countless lives with happiness. His contributions to Indian cinema will be eternally appreciated. My heartfelt condolences to his family and fans. Om Shanti."

His final rites were conducted at the Santacruz Crematorium on Monday.

According to his manager and close friend, the actor succumbed to a chest infection at 3 p.m. on October 20.

The actor's official Instagram account shared a tribute following his passing.

"The news of the departure of the king of comedy, the legendary actor Asrani ji, who captivated millions, has left us in profound grief. He bestowed Indian cinema with a fresh identity through his unique artistry, authenticity, and humor. The essence he infused into each character will remain in our hearts forever. His death is not only a loss for the film industry but for everyone who appreciated his talent. May he rest in peace. Om Shanti," the post conveyed.

Remarkably, only hours before his passing, Asrani had shared a Diwali greeting for his followers on social media.

As one of the most enduring comic figures in Indian cinema, Asrani's career spanned over five decades, during which he appeared in more than 350 films. He honed his skills at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, before making his mark in the Hindi film industry in the mid-1960s.

Initially taking on serious and supporting roles, Asrani's comedic talents soon became evident. He emerged as a fixture in Hindi cinema during the 1970s and 1980s, often embodying lovable fools, flustered clerks, or clever sidekicks. His impeccable timing and expressive demeanor made him a director's favorite.

His memorable roles in iconic films like 'Sholay' and 'Chupke Chupke' established him as a significant figure in acting.

One of his most celebrated performances was in the landmark film 'Sholay', where he portrayed the bumbling jailer parodying 'Hitler', a role that became a timeless part of Indian pop culture.

Asrani showcased his versatility by acting across various genres and languages, including Gujarati and Rajasthani films, and even explored directing with a few Hindi and Gujarati movies. He formed memorable comedic partnerships with actors like Mehmood, Rajesh Khanna, and later Govinda, bridging generations of humor in Bollywood.

Apart from comedy, Asrani exhibited dramatic range in films like 'Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar' and 'Chala Murari Hero Banne', where he also took on directing roles.

His legacy in Indian cinema lies not only in the laughter he brought but also in his unwavering consistency—a hallmark of a true entertainer who adapted over time while remaining rooted in charm and simplicity. Further details surrounding the actor's passing are still awaited.