The Indian film industry mourns the loss of Achyut Potdar, a veteran actor who passed away on August 18, 2025, at the age of 90. Potdar, who acted in over 125 Bollywood films, was a familiar face in Indian cinema and television, known for his character roles and memorable performances. While he had a long and varied career, Potdar is perhaps best remembered for his role as a professor in Rajkumar Hirani's "3 Idiots". Here are five films featuring Achyut Potdar that showcase his talent and versatility:
Aakrosh (2010): In this film, directed by Priyadarshan, Potdar appears in a serious drama that tackles the sensitive issue of honor killings. "Aakrosh" follows an army officer (Ajay Devgan) and a CBI officer (Akshaye Khanna) as they investigate the disappearance of three college students in a remote village. The film is a departure from Priyadarshan's usual comedy style, offering a gritty and intense look at caste politics and violence. While the film primarily focuses on the investigation and action sequences, Potdar's presence adds depth to the narrative.
3 Idiots (2009): This Rajkumar Hirani film is arguably Potdar's most iconic role. He played a college professor, and his dialogue "Kehna Kya Chahte Ho?" became a viral sensation, inspiring countless memes and solidifying his place in pop culture. "3 Idiots," starring Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi, is a comedy-drama that critiques the Indian education system and encourages viewers to pursue their passions. Potdar's portrayal, though brief, left a lasting impression on audiences.
Parineeta (2005): "Parineeta," directed by Pradeep Sarkar, is a romantic drama set in Kolkata in the 1950s. The film stars Vidya Balan, Saif Ali Khan, and Sanjay Dutt. Potdar plays the role of Gurucharan, Vidya Balan's father. "Parineeta" is a visually stunning film with strong performances and a classic love story. Potdar's role as the father adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative.
Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006): Another Rajkumar Hirani film, "Lage Raho Munna Bhai," is a comedy-drama that promotes the philosophy of Gandhigiri. Potdar played a Second Innings House resident. "Lage Raho Munna Bhai" was a critical and commercial success, and it remains a beloved film for its positive message and humor.
Dabangg 2 (2012): In this action-comedy, Potdar played the role of Debi Prasad. "Dabangg 2" is a masala entertainer with plenty of action, humor, and music. While Potdar's role may have been smaller, his presence contributed to the film's overall appeal.
Achyut Potdar's career spanned several decades, and he worked in a variety of genres and roles. He entered the film industry at the age of 44, after working in the Indian Army and the corporate world. Potdar approached acting as a hobby, and he only took on roles that interested him. His natural performances and memorable dialogues made him a respected and admired figure in the Indian entertainment industry. His death is a loss to the industry, but his work will continue to be enjoyed by audiences for years to come.
