Recently, veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan voiced profound admiration for the late actor Asrani, recalling his immense talent and stating that in some instances, particularly in the 1973 film Abhimaan, Asrani was “sometimes better” than Amitabh
Bachchan.
Priyadarshan strongly rejected the label of Asrani as merely a comedian, describing him instead as a “complete actor”.
While remembering his brilliance in Abhimaan, Priyadarshan said, “In Abhimaan, he scored against Amitabh Bachchan so well”.
He noted that Asrani’s range extended far beyond comedy, citing his villainous role in Koshish and his grounded performances.
Priyadarshan highlighted that even when Asrani was in pain amidst his final days on the sets of Haiwaan and Bhoot Bangla, he was a “different man” once the camera was on.
Priyadarshan and Asrani collaborated together on 19 films, including iconic comedies like Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Malamaal Weekly.
Asrani’s final acting performances were in Priyadarshan’s upcoming films Haiwaan and Bhoot Bangla.
Priyadarshan noted that Asrani was a “personal pillar” in his career and a joy to be around, often funnier off-camera than on.
Priyadarshan also shared that Akshay Kumar was intensely saddened by Asrani’s passing, describing it as a “big loss” and reminiscing about the valuable life advice Asrani had given him, specifically on the dangers of producing films with personal money.
News Edit KV Raman
