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Veteran actor Achyut Potdar, famous for his professor role in 3 Idiots, dies at 91 in Thane. He appeared in over 125 films and many TV shows across decades.
Veteran actor Achyut Potdar, best known for 3 Idiots, passed away at 91 in Thane.
Veteran actor Achyut Potdar, widely celebrated for his memorable role as a strict professor in 3 Idiots, passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025. He was 91. The actor breathed his last at Jupiter Hospital in Thane, where he had been admitted due to health complications. The exact cause of his death has not been revealed. His funeral will take place on August 19 in Thane.
From Armed Forces to Acclaimed Acting Career
Before making his mark in cinema, Achyut Potdar served in the Indian Armed Forces and later worked with the Indian Oil Company. His passion for acting eventually led him to films and television in the 1980s, paving the way for a prolific career that spanned more than four decades.
Potdar acted in over 125 films across Hindi and Marathi cinema. His filmography includes critically acclaimed and commercially successful titles 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 with his portrayal of the strict yet endearing engineering professor in Rajkumar Hirani’s blockbuster 3 Idiots. His dialogue “kya baat hai” became an iconic pop culture reference, still widely used on social media and in memes today.
Tributes Pour In for the Veteran Actor
Apart from films, Potdar also made his presence felt on television. He appeared in popular shows like Wagle Ki Duniya, Majha Hoshil Na, Mrs Tendulkar, and Bharat Ki Khoj. His versatility allowed him to move seamlessly between stage, TV, and cinema, earning him respect across the industry.
News of his passing has led to an outpouring of grief on social media. Fans and colleagues have remembered him as a humble, dedicated performer whose work left a lasting impression on audiences.
Achyut Potdar’s contribution to Indian cinema remains immense, and his legacy as both a Marathi and Hindi actor will continue to inspire generations of performers.
Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, …Read More
Shrishti Negi is a journalist with over eight years of experience in the media industry. She leads the Entertainment desk at News18.com. She writes breaking news stories, generates feature ideas, edits copies, … Read More
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