Veteran actor Govardhan Asrani, beloved for his iconic roles, passed away on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 84, following a prolonged illness and a five-day hospitalization due to age-related health issues. Filmmaker Priyadarshan, who collaborated with Asrani on his latest projects Bhoot Bangla and Haiwaan, shared a heartfelt post on social media, expressing his grief and admiration for the late actor. Haiwaan, featuring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, marks Asrani’s final cinematic appearance.

In an interview with India Today, Priyadarshan reflected on Asrani’s dedication during the filming of Haiwaan. Despite suffering from an injury and being advised to rest, Asrani insisted on continuing, telling the director, “Don’t avoid me, I will come.” On set, he performed with remarkable energy, masking his pain between shots. Priyadarshan noted, “The moment you said action, he was a different man, performing so well, with no signs of discomfort.”

Priyadarshan expressed gratitude for completing Haiwaan’s filming in time, with only one minor shot left incomplete. He recounted how Akshay Kumar, who spent significant time with Asrani on set, informed him of the actor’s passing and shared his own heartbreak, saying, “I can’t sleep because I am feeling very bad.” The duo’s scenes in Bhoot Bangla were highlighted as a testament to their exceptional chemistry and Asrani’s enduring talent.

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Asrani’s contributions to Bhoot Bangla and Haiwaan, filmed over six months, marked a poignant end to his illustrious career. Priyadarshan’s tribute underscores the actor’s resilience and passion, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian cinema. The filmmaker’s words, “I miss you,” echo the sentiments of fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a cinematic legend.

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