Producer Dipti Kalwani, who is known for her show Badho Bahu, says that empowerment of women will only become a reality in India with the help of education. The producer adds that this will help change the mindset of people. “Education is imperative for gender equality. It’s the mindset of people that needs to change. Our leaders and mothers play a vital role too. Kids at the young age need to be told that they are equal and our leaders need to ensure that justice happens in cases where women exploitation is concerned,” she says on the occasion of International Women’s Day today.
The small screen has often depicted many women characters, both strong and weak, says Dipti. “Television has always depicted both progressive and regressive characters. It helps to show the difference,” she adds.
She adds, “TV shows show progressive characters who stand with their families, backing them and such shows tend to do better. This is because, for the Indian audience, families come first. Having said that, even rebellious characters do well when their motives are justified.”
The celebrated comedian and character actor passed away due to age-related ailments.
Asrani’s career spanned over five decades across Hindi and regional cinema.
He was best known for his collaborations with Kader Khan and director Priyadarshan.
A prolific career in Indian cinema
Veteran actor Asrani, who brought laughter and warmth to Indian screens for more than five decades, has passed away at the age of 84 due to age-related ailments. Known for his impeccable comic timing and memorable supporting roles, Asrani was among the most recognisable faces in Hindi cinema from the 1970s through the 1990s.
He became a household name with his performance as the eccentric jailer in Sholay (1975), and also left a mark with acclaimed roles in Abhimaan, Bawarchi, and Chupke Chupke. Over the years, his versatility allowed him to move seamlessly between comedy, character parts and cameos.
Successful collaborations with Kader Khan
Asrani shared a long and successful professional relationship with actor-writer Kader Khan. The duo appeared together in several hit films including Swarg Se Sundar, Charnon Ki Saugandh, Patal Bhairvi, Himmatwala, Jaisi Karni Waisi Bharni, Dulhe Raja, and Ankhiyon Se Goli Maare. Their chemistry and comic exchanges became a staple of mainstream Hindi cinema in the 1980s and 1990s.
Comic brilliance under Priyadarshan’s direction
In the 2000s, Asrani reached a new generation of filmgoers through his collaborations with filmmaker Priyadarshan. He featured in some of the director’s most popular comedies including Hera Pheri, Yeh Tera Ghar Yeh Mera Ghar, Hulchul, Garam Masala, Malamaal Weekly, Chup Chup Ke, Bhagam Bhaag, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Dhol, Billu, and De Dana Dan.
A legacy of laughter
With more than 350 films to his credit, Asrani’s contribution to Indian cinema is immense. His distinctive expressions, dialogue delivery, and ability to find humour in everyday situations made him one of Bollywood’s most beloved comic actors.
He is remembered not only for his performances but also for shaping the tone of comedy in Hindi films across generations.
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