Sholay director Ramesh Sippy Remembers ‘Angrezon ke zamaane ke jailer’ Asrani

Veteran filmmaker Ramesh Sippy, who immortalised one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic comic characters — the “Angrezon ke zamaane ke jailer” from Sholay (1975) — remembered actor Govardhan Asrani with deep emotion and respect following his passing on October 20.

“I am very sad by this news. I just don’t know how to express myself, but I think a great talent has passed away. On screen, he would always light up the frame. We all loved him,” Sippy told mid-day, recalling the veteran actor whose inimitable comic timing became a defining part of 1970s Hindi cinema.

Sippy first directed Asrani in Sita Aur Gita (1972), where the actor had a small cameo in the film’s opening sequence. “He did that scene so well that we thought he deserved another chance. And he was ten times better in Sholay,” Sippy fondly recalled. “He was very easy to direct because he got into the role so naturally. It was a well-written part by Salim-Javed, but Asrani made it come alive. He just blended into it beautifully.”

Speaking of the timelessness of Asrani’s portrayal, Sippy noted that the jailer remains one of the most unforgettable characters from Sholay. “People always ask what made Sholay so special. I think the writing of Salim-Javed and the performances of all the wonderful actors created that magic. Every actor did their part with such honesty — and Asrani was no exception. His comic energy balanced the film’s intense tone perfectly,” he said.

Sippy also revealed that his wife, Kiran Juneja, who is currently working on a documentary about him, had recently spoken to Asrani. “Not in the last few days, but earlier, my wife called him up for her documentary. He obliged and spoke very well. He seemed fine then. Nothing seemed to indicate any problems at all,” Sippy said with quiet disbelief.

Reflecting on the actor’s legacy, Sippy said, “We will miss a great human being and a very fine talent. He brought joy to millions and was loved by everyone he worked with. The entire country will remember him with a smile — that’s the kind of impact he had.”