Veteran actor Achyut Potdar, best known for his role as the kind-hearted professor in 3 Idiots, passed away on August 18, 2025, at the age of 91. He breathed his last at Jupiter Hospital in Thane, where he had been admitted due to health complications. The cause of his demise remains unknown at this time. His last rites will be performed on August 19 in Thane.
Achyut Potdar’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. With a career that spanned over four decades, he became a familiar face to audiences across generations. His ability to seamlessly blend into diverse roles made him one of the most respected and reliable character actors in both Hindi and Marathi film industries.
Before stepping into the world of cinema, Potdar had an entirely different life path. He served in the Indian Armed Forces and later worked at Indian Oil Corporation. It wasn’t until the 1980s that he ventured into acting, quickly becoming a regular presence in films and television shows known for their substance and storytelling.
His filmography is both extensive and impressive, featuring critically acclaimed and commercially successful titles like Aakrosh, Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai, Ardh Satya, Tezaab, Parinda, Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Rangeela, Vaastav, Hum Saath Saath Hain, Parineeta, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Dabangg 2, and Ventilator. In each role—no matter how small—Potdar brought warmth, depth, and credibility.
Achyut Potdar may have rarely played the lead, but his contributions were pivotal to every story he was a part of. His passing leaves a void that few can fill, but his legacy will live on through the countless memorable moments he gave to Indian cinema.