Mumbai: Veteran actor Achyut Potdar, remembered fondly for his iconic professor role in 3 Idiots, passed away at the age of 91. He breathed his last at Jupiter Hospital in Thane, where he had been admitted with health-related complications. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed. His funeral is to be held in Thane.
A Versatile Career Spanning Four Decades
With a filmography of more than 125 films in Hindi and Marathi, Potdar carved a unique space for himself in both mainstream and parallel cinema. His body of work included critically acclaimed titles like Aakrosh, Ardh Satya, and Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai, as well as popular blockbusters such as Tezaab, Parinda, Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Rangeela, Vaastav, Hum Saath Saath Hain, Parineeta, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, and Dabangg 2.
On television, he was equally prolific, with memorable appearances in Bharat Ek Khoj, Pradhan Mantri, Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo, Aahat, Wagle Ki Duniya, and the Marathi serial Majha Hoshil Na.
From Army Officer to Actor
Before his entry into the film world, Potdar lived an extraordinary life off-screen. He taught as a professor in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, and later served in the Indian Army, retiring as a captain in 1967. He subsequently joined Indian Oil Corporation, where he worked as an executive for nearly 25 years before retiring at 58.
It was only at the age of 44 that Potdar finally pursued his true passion — acting. What followed was a journey that made him one of the most recognisable character actors in Indian cinema.
A Pop-Culture Legacy
Potdar’s witty line, “Arey, kehna kya chahte ho?” from 3 Idiots, transcended the film itself, becoming a popular phrase on social media memes and pop-culture references.
His passing marks the end of an era for Indian cinema, with tributes pouring in for an actor who not only entertained but also inspired generations.
