Priyadarshan Shares How Asrani Filmed ‘Haiwaan’ Despite Health Struggles

Asrani’s Last Days on Set

Just a few days prior to his untimely passing, renowned actor Asrani was actively filming Priyadarshan’s upcoming project, *Haiwaan*. This film features big names, including Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan. Their collaboration has spanned over a dozen films, and this marks Asrani’s final appearance in a work helmed by Priyadarshan.

Reflecting on Asrani’s Contribution

In a recent discussion, Priyadarshan shared insights about Asrani’s character and his final days on the film’s set. He expressed that Asrani brought immense positivity to the environment: “He was a great man. His passing is a personal loss to me,” he stated.

Priyadarshan recalled that he was fortunate to film Asrani’s last scene, which took place merely five to six days before the news of his death. He remembered, “We were managing his discomfort by providing a chair, which we only removed during takes.” Despite enduring significant back pain, Asrani showed incredible dedication to completing his scenes.

A Glimpse into Asrani’s Career

Asrani launched his acting career after graduating from FTII in 1966, initially starring in Punjabi films. However, he gained wider recognition through his roles in Hindi cinema, particularly in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s movies during the 1970s. He became synonymous with comedy, notably for his iconic portrayal of the quirky jailer in *Sholay* and for collaborating frequently with Priyadarshan on films like *Hera Pheri* and *Bhool Bhulaiyaa*.

Asrani’s dedication to his craft left a lasting legacy in Bollywood. His recent work in *Haiwaan* will serve as a poignant reminder of his talent.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the contributions of Asrani to the film industry, it’s clear that his influence will be missed. What are your favorite memories of Asrani’s performances? Share your thoughts below!