In the early hours of August 18, 2025, veteran actor Achyut Potdar breathed his last at Jupiter Hospital in Thane. He was 91 years old, although the exact medical cause of death hasn't been publicly disclosed, nearly all credible sources point toward a gentle decline tied to the natural aging process. “age-related ailments” seems to be the most consistent descriptor across reports. His final rites are scheduled for August 19 in Thane, Mumbai.
View this post on Instagram
Born on August 22, 1934, in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Potdar’s early years were marked by academic achievement—earning a university gold medal in economics and becoming a professor in Rewa, followed by service in the Indian Army, retiring as a Captain in 1967, and over two decades as an executive at Indian Oil Corporation before retiring at 58.
Remarkably, his journey into acting began relatively late, in his mid-40s. Even then, it was never a quest but a calling: he took roles that found him, rather than seeking them out, and quickly established himself as one of the most treasured character actors in both Marathi and Hindi cinema.
A Prolific Career Spanning Four Decades
Over the years, Potdar delivered over 125 films and nearly 100 television serials, in various languages and mediums—Radio, Drama, TV, and Film. A few of his notable works are:
- Early classics like Aakrosh, Ardh Satya, Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai
- Blockbuster hits, such as Tezaab, Parinda, Rangeela, Vaastav, Parineeta, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Dabangg 2, and Ventilator.
- On television, his presence was no less impactful—with shows like Bharat Ek Khoj, Wagle Ki Duniya, Pradhanmantri, Mrs Tendulkar, Aahat, Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo, and the Marathi favorite Majha Hoshil Na.
Also Read: Who Are The SuperAgers? Study Finds The Secret Behind Their Sharp Memory
The Professor Who Became a Meme Icon: “Arey, Kehna Kya Chahte Ho?”
If one role defines Achyut Potdar’s imprint on popular culture, it is the stern, deadpan professor in 3 Idiots. His line, “Arey, kehna kya chahte ho?” hit a note so profoundly that it went beyond dialogue to become an internet meme, an internet catchphrase, and a live-wire moment in Indian pop culture.
Tributes from the Industry and Fans Alike
The outpouring of love following his death was heartfelt and wide. Filmmaker Hansal Mehta referred to the privilege of working with Potdar, calling him a “permanent fan” after seeing him in Angaar and praising his comic timing and dry wit in Mehta’s own film Jayate.
Also Read: Can Depression Speed Up Ageing? Study Warns Of A 30% Higher Health Risk
Summary Stats at a Glance
- Date of Death: August 18, 2025 (aged 91) – Jupiter Hospital, Thane
- Funeral: August 19, 2025, Thane
- Body of Work: 125+ films, ~100 TV shows, stage and ads included
- Career Start: Entered acting at 44, after diverse academic, military, and corporate careers
- Iconic Role: The professor in 3 Idiots, delivered the viral line “Arey, kehna kya chahte ho?”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]