Legendary actor Asrani, who died on Monday after being in the hospital for four days, was not just a towering figure in Indian cinema but also a personal pillar in the life and career of filmmaker Priyadarshan. Having worked with him in 19 films, “which is more than he has done with Hrishi da (Hrishikesh Mukherjee), his maximum with any filmmaker,” as he proudly pointed out. In an exclusive chat with India Today, Priyadarshan remembered him not just as an actor but as an institution of craft, humility, and discipline.

Priyadarshan reflected on Asrani’s talent beyond comedy , recalling how in the ’70s audiences were drawn to his grounded performances in films like 'Abhimaan' and 'Parichay'. “He’s not just a comedian; he was even a villain in 'Koshish'. I used to hate him, so you can imag

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