Achyut Potdar, Famous for "Arey Kehna Kya Chahte Ho" Line, Passes Away at 91

Veteran Marathi and Hindi film actor Achyut Potdar, who entertained audiences for more than four decades, passed away on Monday at the age of 91. He breathed his last at Jupiter Hospital in Thane, where he was admitted due to health complications. The exact cause of his death has not been disclosed. His funeral will take place on August 19 in Thane.

The news of his demise came to light after a private channel shared a tribute post on its official Instagram handle.

In a career spanning over 125 films, Potdar seamlessly balanced commercially successful ventures with critically acclaimed cinema. His memorable performances came in films such as Aakrosh, Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai, Ardh Satya, Tezaab, Parinda, Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Dilwale, Rangeela, Vaastav, Hum Saath Saath Hain, Parineeta, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Dabangg 2 and Ventilator.

He became a household name for his role as the strict professor in Aamir Khan’s blockbuster 3 Idiots, with his dialogue “Arey kehna kya chahte ho” turning into a viral pop culture reference on social media.

Apart from films, Potdar had an illustrious television career. He appeared in iconic shows like Bharat Ek Khoj, All The Best (Doordarshan), Pradhan Mantri (Zee TV), Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo (Zee TV), Aahat (Sony TV), Wagle Ki Duniya, and Majha Hoshil Na (Zee Marathi).

Before entering cinema, Potdar led a multifaceted professional life. He began as a professor in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, before joining the Indian Army, where he served until 1967 and retired as a captain. He later joined Indian Oil Corporation, where he worked for nearly 25 years and retired as an executive at the age of 58 in 1992.

At 44, he decided to pursue his passion for acting, marking the beginning of a second innings that would make him one of the most respected character actors in Indian cinema.

With his warm screen presence, versatile acting, and memorable roles, Achyut Potdar carved a unique space in Indian film and television. His journey from professor and army officer to corporate executive and finally to cinema stalwart remains an inspiring story.

Potdar’s contributions to Indian entertainment will be remembered and cherished for generations to come.