India, Oct. 21 -- Filmmaker Priyadarshan has opened up about his close bond with actor Govardhan Asrani, popularly known as Asrani, who passed away at the age of 84. Asrani, remembered for his impeccable comic timing and memorable performances across generations, died on Sunday, with his last rites performed later that evening in Mumbai.

Filmmaker Priyadarshan, who directed Asrani in some of his most beloved comedies including Hera Pheri, Hulchul, Garam Masala and Bhagam Bhag, reflected on their long association and the actor's contribution to cinema.

"I did maximum films with Asrani sir. I realised that I did more films with him than Hrishi da (Hrishikesh Mukherjee) did with him," Priyadarshan told News18, in an interview.

"Right from...