Actor Achyut Potdar, Known for ‘3 Idiots,’ Passes Away at 91

The film industry mourns the loss of veteran actor Achyut Potdar, celebrated for his contributions to Hindi and Marathi cinema. Potdar passed away at the age of 91. He breathed his last on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Jupiter Hospital in Thane, Mumbai. The cause of his death has not been disclosed. The news of his passing has sent a wave of sorrow throughout the film industry. Reports indicate that Potdar had been experiencing health issues, which led to his hospitalization. His final rites are scheduled to take place in Thane on August 19, 2025. Before embarking on his acting career, Achyut Potdar served in the Indian Army and worked for the Indian Oil Company. He began acting in films and television shows in the 1980s, quickly gaining recognition for his performances. Over his extensive career, Potdar portrayed memorable characters in numerous films. His filmography includes titles such as ‘Aakrosh,’ ‘Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyon Aata Hai,’ ‘Ardh Satya,’ ‘Tezaab,’ ‘Parinda,’ ‘Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman,’ ‘Dilwale,’ ‘Yeh Dillagi,’ ‘Rangeela,’ ‘Mrityudand,’ ‘Yashwant,’ ‘Ishq,’ ‘Vaastav,’ ‘Aa Ab Laut Chalen,’ ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain,’ ‘Parineeta,’ ‘Lage Raho Munna Bhai,’ ‘Dabangg 2,’ and ‘Ventilator.’ He is particularly remembered for his brief but impactful role as an engineering professor in Aamir Khan’s film ‘3 Idiots.’ His dialogue, ‘Are akhir kehna kya chahte ho?’ (What do you want to say, after all?) became iconic and continues to be used in memes today. In addition to films, Achyut Potdar also acted in television shows like ‘Wagle Ki Duniya,’ ‘Maza Hoshil Na,’ ‘Mrs. Tendulkar,’ and ‘Bharat Ek Khoj.’ Following the announcement of his death, many users on social media have been paying tribute to him.