Hema Malini Remembers Asrani's 'Unforgettable' Contribution To Sholay

Hema Malini is mourning the loss of her Sholay co-star Asrani, who passed away on Monday at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness. On Tuesday evening, Hema shared a throwback picture with the late actor on her X account and penned a heartfelt tribute. In her message, she praised his incredible comic timing, unforgettable performances, and the joy he brought to audiences. She also highlighted his iconic role as the jailer in Sholay, calling it “simply mind-blowing,” and extended condolences to his family, acknowledging the profound loss felt by the film industry.

Hema Malini’s Tribute

In the photo, Hema and Asrani are seen smiling together. Asrani, who played the jailer in Sholay, shared the screen with Hema, who portrayed Basanti. In her caption, Hema wrote: "We have lost one more gem of an actor. Asrani ji, who has regaled audiences with his superb comedy, is no more. He has done many memorable roles in movies with me, but his role as jailor in Sholay was simply mind blowing!"

We have lost one more gem of an actor. Asrani ji who has regaled audiences with his superb comedy, is no more. He has done many memorable roles in movies with me but but his role as jailor

in Sholay was simply mind blowing!The film industry, already in shock with the passing of… pic.twitter.com/zSNpz21tm0

— Hema Malini (@dreamgirlhema) October 21, 2025

She added, "The film industry, already in shock with the passing of Pankaj Dheer, now has to contend with one more severe loss. Heartfelt condolences to his family who have to bear this heavy loss (folded hands emoji)."ALSO READ: Asrani’s Passing Left Akshay Kumar Feeling ‘Depressed,’ Priyadarshan Reveals Actor Called Him Twice

Asrani’s Legacy

Over a career spanning more than five decades, Asrani became one of Hindi cinema’s most beloved actors. Known for his impeccable comic timing and expressive performances, he appeared in over 350 films. His portrayal of the jail warden in the 1975 classic Sholay remains iconic in Indian pop culture. In recent years, he featured in films such as Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Dhamaal, Bunty Aur Babli 2, R… Rajkumar, All The Best, and Welcome.Asrani is survived by his wife, Manju Asrani, his sister, and nephew. The couple had no children.