Asrani, the beloved veteran actor and comedian, passed away on October 20 at the age of 84 in Mumbai. He had been hospitalised for five days at Arogya Nidhi Hospital due to breathing issues caused by fluid accumulation in his lungs. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the film industry, including heartfelt messages from stars like Salman Khan and Hema Malini.

In a 2016 interview, Asrani expressed regret over his role in the adult comedy 'Mastizaade', stating, "It's terrible and horrible (the vulgarity in films these days). I did not know that the film would be made like this." He lamented the shift in Hindi cinema from suggestive comedy to explicit content, saying, "People can discern now, the multiplex-going audience says, 'we don't like this vulgarity and this phase will get over soon.'" Despite his concerns, he believed that Indian audiences would ultimately prefer films that uphold family values.

Asrani's final days were marked by his dedication to his craft. He continued to shoot for his last two films, 'Bhooth Bangla' and 'Haiwaan', even while in pain. Director Priyadarshan recalled how Asrani insisted on working despite being unable to stand, showcasing his remarkable work ethic. Priyadarshan noted, "He couldn’t walk, so we had a chair for him in between shots. But the moment you said action, he was a different man."

His passing has left a significant void in the industry. Hema Malini shared her sorrow, stating, "We have lost one more gem of an actor. Asrani ji who has regaled audiences with his superb comedy, is no more." Salman Khan echoed this sentiment, calling him "a true legend of laughter."

Asrani's contributions to Indian cinema spanned decades, with memorable roles in films like 'Sholay', where he played the iconic jailor, and 'Chhoti Si Baat'. His ability to blend humour with heartfelt performances made him a cherished figure in Bollywood. His last rites were conducted privately, marking a poignant farewell to a true legend of Indian cinema.