India, Nov. 1 -- Here's a 25-year-old "Ajit joke":

Henchman Robert: Boss, sona kahan hai?

Ajit: Raabert, kahin par bhi so jao.

I can't remember when I heard my first such quip but this remains one of my favourites.

I don't think any other Hindi film villain has had this kind of mini-industry of affectionate quips built around them. Of course, the jokes had to be narrated with his specific slow drawl or they wouldn't work.

In the wake of his 27th death anniversary (Ajit died on October 22, 1998; aged 76), I want to remember this actor whose style and dialogue delivery as a Bollywood bad guy made him such a popular comic icon.

His onscreen persona, of white suits, carefully-combed-back hair, cigar and distinctive accent, seemed design...