When veteran actor Govardhan Asrani, fondly known as Asrani, passed away on Monday at the age of 84, it marked the end of an era in Hindi cinema. With a career spanning over five decades, Asrani made millions laugh with his sharp comic timing and unforgettable performances in some of Bollywood’s biggest hits. But while audiences knew every bit about his on-screen charm, few knew about his wife, Manju Asrani , an actress-turned-director who chose to live a peaceful life away from the limelight.

Here’s everything to know about the woman who stood beside one of Bollywood’s most loved comedians.

Manju Asrani was a popular actress in 1970sAs reported by Bollywood Life, Manju Asrani, earlier known as Manju Bansal , was a well-known actress in the 1970s. She appeared in several Hindi films and shared screen space with her husband, Asrani, in many of them. Her charm and acting talent earned her several roles throughout the decade.

Asrani and Manju’s love story began on film sets
Asrani and Manju’s love story blossomed behind the camera. The two met while working together on films like ‘Aaj Ki Taaza Khabar’ and ‘Namak Haraam’. They fell in love while working together and later tied the knot. After marriage, Manju continued to act in films for a while.

About Manju Asrani’s workShe worked in movies such as ‘Chandi Sona’, ‘Tapasya’, ‘Jaan-E-Bahar’, ‘Jurmana’, ‘Nalayak’, ‘Sarkari Mehman’ and ‘Chor Sipahi’. However, by the 1980s, she decided to step back from acting.

In the 1990s, she turned her attention behind the camera and tried her hand at direction. Her move from acting to directing showed her creative versatility, but she continued to maintain a low profile and stayed away from the limelight.

Did the couple have children?According to Navbharat Times and Bollywood Life, reports suggest that the couple did not have children, although nothing has been officially confirmed. Their marriage, however, was based on mutual respect, companionship and deep love, something that lasted for over fifty years.

Family and fans mourn Asrani’s demiseThe news of Asrani’s passing left fans heartbroken. His family shared an emotional statement on his Instagram account that read, “Our beloved, the one who brought smiles to everyone’s faces, Asrani ji is no longer among us. His passing is an irreparable loss for both Hindi cinema and our hearts. The indelible mark he left through his performances will remain eternal. May God grant peace to his soul. Om Shanti.”

Confirming the news, Asrani’s manager Babu Bhai Thiba told ETimes, “He was not feeling well and was admitted to Arogya Hospital four days ago due to breathing issues. He passed away at around 3 PM today. His last rites were performed at 8 PM today. The family is back home now… very sad.”

Asran’s work will always be cherished Asrani’s contribution to Indian cinema remains unmatched. He appeared in countless Hindi and Gujarati films, including ‘Bawarchi’, ‘Namak Haraam’, ‘Chupke Chupke’, ‘Abhimaan’, ‘Chala Murari Hero Banne’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’, ‘Parichay’, ‘Chhoti Si Baat’, ‘Rafoo Chakkar’, ‘Khoon Pasina’, ‘Alaap’, ‘Amdavad No Rikshawalo’, ‘Saat Qaidi’, ‘Sansar Chakra’ and ‘Pankhi No Mal’. Yet, his most iconic role remains that of the jailor in Ramesh Sippy’s ‘Sholay’, a performance that continues to make audiences laugh even decades later.