Ashok Saraf, a celebrated Indian actor and comedian, has graced Hindi and Marathi cinema and television with his exceptional comedic talent. He’s a beloved figure known for his memorable performances.
Wiki/Biography
Ashok Saraf entered the world on June 4, 1947, in Nagpur, then part of British India (now Maharashtra). His hometown is Belgaum, Maharashtra, and his zodiac sign is Gemini. He spent a significant part of his childhood in Chikhalwadi, South Mumbai, and received his education at DGT Vidyalaya, Mumbai. His foray into Marathi drama began at the young age of 18, with his first commercial play being “Yayati Aani Devyani.”
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5’ 10”
- Weight (approx.): 80 kg
- Hair Colour: Black
- Eye Colour: Black
Family, Caste & Wife
Ashok Saraf hails from a Hindu family. While details about his parents and siblings remain relatively private, he is happily married to Nivedita Joshi Saraf, a well-known actress in film and television. Together they have a son, Aniket Saraf, who is a pastry chef.
There were past rumors linking him to Marathi actress Ranjana Deshmukh that surfaced after her unfortunate death in an accident.
Career
Ashok Saraf’s acting journey commenced in 1969 with the Marathi film “Janaki.” His filmography boasts a diverse range of roles in numerous films, including “Donhi Gharacha Pahuna,” “Jawal Ye Laju Nako,” “Tumacha Amacha Jamala,” “Chimanrao Gundyabhau,” “Deed Shahane,” “Haldikunku,” and “Duniya Kari Salam.” During the 1980s and 90s, he was recognized as one of Marathi cinema’s leading comedic actors, alongside Laxmikant Berde.
His comedic prowess truly shone in Marathi films such as “Ashi Hi Banava Banavi,” “Aayatya Gharat Gharoba,” and “Dhum Dhadaka,” where he redefined comedic performance. Beyond Marathi cinema, he’s also appeared in significant Bollywood roles in films like “Singham,” “Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya,” “Gupt,” “Koyla,” “Yes Boss,” and “Karan Arjun.” His television credits include popular shows like “Yeh Choti Badi Baatein” and “Hum Paanch.” He also starred in the hugely successful Sahara TV comedy series “Don’t Worry Hojayega” in 2000.
He also runs a successful production house, Aniket Telefilms.
Awards
Ashok Saraf’s contributions have been widely recognized through numerous prestigious awards:
| Award | Film/Show | Year (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Filmfare Award | Ram Ram Gangaram | 1977 |
| Maharashtra Government Award | Pandu Havaldar | – |
| Screen Award | Sawai Havaldar | – |
| Bhojpuri Film Award | Maika Bitua | – |
| Best Comedian in Maharashtracha Favorite Kon? | – | – |
| Note: He’s also received several more Filmfare Awards and numerous Maharashtra Government awards. A Padma Shri award was expected in 2025. | ||
Favourite Things
- Directors: Shantaram Bapu, Rajabhau Paranjpe
Facts
- His hobbies include traveling and listening to music.
- He is affectionately known as “Mama” (maternal uncle).
- He has starred in over 250 Marathi films, with over 100 achieving commercial success.
- He’s experienced both minor and major car accidents, thankfully surviving them.
- He has acted in many Marathi plays like “Hamidabaichi Kothi,” “Anidhikrut,” “Manomilan,” “He Ram Cardiogram,” “Darling Darling,” “Sarkha Chatit Dukhtay,” “Laginghai,” and “Vacuum Cleaner.”
- His wife, Nivedita Saraf Joshi, is younger than him by 18 years.
- Death rumors circulated in 2017, but were promptly denied by his wife.
- He is often hailed as the “Samrat Ashok” of the Marathi film industry.
- During his early career, due to low pay, he once traveled second class on a train and was embarrassed when recognized by policemen.
