“Asrani Slams Mastizaade for ‘Vulgar’ Humor, Says Film Was ‘All About Taking Clothes Off’”

Veteran Actor Asrani Criticised Vulgar Comedy, Regretted Doing Mastizaade.

Veteran actor and comedian Asrani, who passed away on October 20 at the age of 84, had openly criticised the increasing vulgarity in Hindi comedy films. Known for his impeccable comic timing and memorable roles, the Sholay star had expressed regret over his participation in the 2016 adult comedy Mastizaade, which starred Sunny Leone.

“It Was Terrible and Horrible”

In a 2016 interview with PTI, Asrani admitted he had not anticipated how the film would turn out. “It’s terrible and horrible (the vulgarity in films these days). I did not know that the film would be made like this,” he said.

Reflecting on the evolution of humour in Hindi cinema, he added, “Mehmood sahab had started using double-meaning dialogues and some of them worked, so others tried to cash in on the formula. It was still double meaning then, but now it is vulgar — all that remains is taking clothes off.”

Asrani believed that India’s largely family-oriented audience would eventually reject such films.

A Legendary Career Spanning Five Decades

Govardhan Asrani, fondly remembered as the eccentric jailer in Sholay, passed away in Mumbai after a prolonged illness. His funeral was held at Santacruz Crematorium, attended by family and close friends.

Over a career spanning more than 50 years and 350 films, Asrani became one of Indian cinema’s most beloved comedians. His performances combined rib-tickling humour with emotional depth, entertaining generations of moviegoers.

Tributes poured in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Govardhan Asrani Ji. A gifted entertainer and a truly versatile artist… His contribution to Indian cinema will always be cherished. Om Shanti.”

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also paid tribute, recalling Asrani’s comedic brilliance. “Deeply saddened by the demise of the legendary actor Govardhan Asrani ji. His unmatched versatility and unique sense of humour brought joy and laughter to millions,” he wrote on X.

He added, “From the iconic jailer in Sholay to memorable roles in Chupke Chupke, Golmaal, Aap Ki Kasam, Abhimaan, Baton Baton Mein, Chhoti Si Baat, Dhamaal and many more, his performances have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. My humble tributes to him and deepest condolences to his family and millions of fans. Om Shanti.”

Born in Jaipur, Asrani graduated from FTII Pune and went on to star alongside legends like Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, and Rajesh Khanna, leaving behind a legacy cherished by generations of film lovers.