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{{Short description|Indian actor and comedian (b. 1947)}} | {{Short description|Indian actor and comedian (b.1947)}} | ||
{{ | {{Use Indian English|date=September 2025}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2025}} | |||
{{Use dmy dates|date= | |||
{{Infobox person | {{Infobox person | ||
| name | | name = Ashok Saraf | ||
| image | | image = Ashok_Saraf.jpg | ||
| image_size | | signature = File:Ashok Saraf Sign.jpg | ||
| caption | | image_size = 220px | ||
| birth_name | | caption = Saraf in 2011 | ||
| birth_date | | birth_name = | ||
| birth_place = [[Bombay]], [[Bombay | | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|1947|6|4}} | ||
| spouse | | birth_place = [[Bombay]], [[Bombay Province]], [[British India]] <br/>(present day, [[Mumbai]], [[Maharashtra]], [[India]]) | ||
| children | | spouse = {{Marriage|[[Nivedita Saraf]]|1990}} | ||
| website | | children = 1 | ||
| yearsactive = | | awards = 4 [[Filmfare Marathi Awards]]<br/> [[Filmfare Marathi Lifetime Achievement Award]] | ||
| website = | |||
| honours = [[Padma Shri]] (2025)<br/>[[Maharashtra Bhushan]] (2023)<br/>[[Sangeet Natak Akademi Award]] (2022)<br/> [[V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award|V. Shantaram Award]] (2006) | |||
| other names = ''Mahanayak'', ''Ashok Samrat'', ''Mama'' | |||
| education = | |||
| alma_mater = | |||
| occupation = {{hlist|Actor|comedian}} | |||
| yearsactive = 1969–present | |||
| works = [[Ashok Saraf filmography|Full list]] | |||
}} | }} | ||
'''Ashok Saraf''' (born 4 June 1947) is an Indian film | '''Ashok Saraf''' (born 4 June 1947) is an Indian actor and comedian, known for his work in [[Marathi language|Marathi]] and [[Hindi films]] along with [[theatre]] in both languages. Saraf has received several awards including eleven [[Maharashtra State Film Awards]] and four [[Filmfare Awards Marathi]]. He is referred to as the ''Mahanayak'' ({{lit|Greatest Actor}}), ''Ashok Samrat'' or ''Mama'' of the [[Marathi cinema|Marathi film industry]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=9 September 2022 |title=Patrya Maruti Ganpati's one-of-a-kind tribute to Ashok Saraf |work=[[Pune Mirror]] |url=https://punemirror.com/pune/civic/Patrya-Maruti-Ganpatis-one-of-a-kind-tribute-to-Ashok-Saraf/cid8479352.htm |url-status=live |access-date=15 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231017225227/https://punemirror.com/pune/civic/Patrya-Maruti-Ganpatis-one-of-a-kind-tribute-to-Ashok-Saraf/cid8479352.htm |archive-date=17 October 2023 |quote=Ashok Saraf was honoured for his lifetime achievement and thought it would be a nice idea for the procession display and his contribution to the film industry is remarkable, and the "'''Mahanayak'''" deserves to be shown love and gratitude in every way possible}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=22 June 2022 |title=Kon Honar Crorepati : मराठी सिनेसृष्टीचे महानायक अशोक सराफ येणार 'कोण होणार करोडपती'च्या मंचावर |language=mr |work=[[ABP Majha]] |url=https://marathi.abplive.com/entertainment/television/kon-honar-crorepati-ashok-saraf-the-great-hero-of-marathi-cinema-will-come-on-the-stage-of-kon-honar-crorepati-the-special-episode-will-take-place-on-june-25th-1072352 |access-date=15 October 2023 |quote=मराठी मनोरंजनसृष्टी ज्यांना '''अशोक मामा''' म्हणून ओळखते असं अभिनयाचं ज्येष्ठ अभिनेते अशोक सराफ |trans-quote=Veteran actor Ashok Saraf, who is known as '''Ashok Mama''' in the Marathi entertainment industry}}</ref><ref name=":1" /> In 2016, Saraf received [[Filmfare Marathi Lifetime Achievement Award]] for his Contribution to Marathi cinema.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ashok Saraf Films and Shows – Apple TV |url=https://tv.apple.com/gb/person/ashok-saraf/umc.cpc.12ezk5n4z55end909jd8blwms |access-date=24 September 2025 |website=Apple TV |language=en-GB}}</ref> In 2023, he received the [[Maharashtra Bhushan]], the highest civilian honour in the Indian state of [[Maharashtra]].<ref>{{Cite magazine |title=Veteran actor Ashok Saraf to be conferred with Maharashtra Bhushan Award 2023 |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/veteran-marathi-actor-hum-paanch-ashok-saraf-to-be-conferred-with-maharashtra-bhushan-award-2023-2495540-2024-01-30 |magazine=[[India Today]] |date=30 January 2024 |access-date=31 January 2024}}</ref> Saraf received [[Padma Shri]], India's fourth-highest civilian honour, from the [[Government of India]] in 2025.<ref>{{cite news |title=Nivedita Saraf expresses her happiness as Ashok Saraf is conferred with Padma Shri: 'It was long overdue' - Exclusive |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/marathi/movies/news/nivedita-saraf-expresses-her-happiness-as-ashok-saraf-is-conferred-with-padma-shri-it-was-long-overdue-exclusive/articleshow/117562188.cms |work=The Times of India |date=26 January 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Padma Awards 2025 announced |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2096285 |website=pib.gov.in |access-date=5 February 2025}}</ref> | ||
From the early 1980s, Saraf started getting | From the early 1980s, Saraf started getting leading roles in Marathi films. The combination of Ashok Saraf, [[Laxmikant Berde]], [[Sachin Pilgaonkar]] and [[Mahesh Kothare]] created the "comedy films wave" in Marathi cinema from 1985 that lasted for more than a decade. His successful Marathi films as the lead hero include ''[[Ek Daav Bhutacha]]'' (1982), ''[[Dhum Dhadaka]]'' (1985), ''[[Gammat Jammat]]'' (1987), ''[[Bhutacha Bhau]]'' (1989), ''[[Balache Baap Brahmachari]]'' (1989), ''[[Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi|Ashi hi Banawa Banavi]]'' (1988) and ''[[Aayatya Gharat Gharoba]]'' (1991). | ||
In | In Bollywood he worked in many movies such as ''[[Karan Arjun]]'' (1995), [[Yes Boss (film)|''Yes'' ''Boss'']] (1997), [[Joru Ka Ghulam|''Joru'' ''Ka Ghulam'']] (2000) and ''[[Navra Maza Navsacha|Navra Mazha Navsacha]]'' (2004)''[[Singham]]'' (2011) ''[[Navra Maza Navsacha 2|Navra Mazha Navsacha 2]]'' (2024)and in many Hindi television [[sitcom]]s.<ref>{{Cite news |title=त्या मुलीने मामा बनवले |url=http://maharashtratimes.indiatimes.com/drama/ashok-saraf/articleshow/48037559.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160222235918/http://maharashtratimes.indiatimes.com/drama/ashok-saraf/articleshow/48037559.cms |archive-date=22 February 2016 |work=[[Maharashtra Times]] |date=12 July 2015 |access-date=14 February 2016}}</ref> | ||
==Early life== | ==Early life== | ||
Saraf was born in [[Bombay]] (present day Mumbai) on 4 June 1947.<ref name="DivyaMarathi"/ | Saraf was born in [[Bombay]], (present day [[Mumbai]]) on 4 June 1947.<ref name="DivyaMarathi">{{cite news |date=4 June 2018 |title=B'day: पत्नीपेक्षा 18 वर्षांनी मोठे आहेत अशोक सराफ, या कारणामुळे गोव्यात केले होते लग्न |url=https://divyamarathi.bhaskar.com/news/BOL-MB-IFTM-birthday-special-ashok-saraf-and-nivedita-saraf-wedding-story-5887201-PHO.html?seq=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230428124915/https://divyamarathi.bhaskar.com/news/BOL-MB-IFTM-birthday-special-ashok-saraf-and-nivedita-saraf-wedding-story-5887201-PHO.html |archive-date=28 April 2023 |access-date=12 July 2019 |work=[[Divya Marathi]] |language=mr}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite news |title=Ashok Saraf's punctuality |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/marathi/happy-birthday-ashok-saraf-times-when-nivedita-revealed-hubby-ashoks-secrets/photostory/76191665.cms?picid=76191764 |access-date=5 December 2023 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> He grew up in the [[South Mumbai]] neighbourhood of Chikhalwadi and went to DGT Vidyalay for his education.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Ashok Saraf: Interesting facts about the actor |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/marathi/movies/news/ashok-saraf-interesting-facts-about-the-actor/photostory/66134710.cms |access-date=5 December 2023 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> He was named "Ashok" after veteran actor [[Ashok Kumar]].<ref name=":2" /> | ||
==Career== | ==Career== | ||
Saraf has been working in the film and television industry since the | {{see also|Ashok Saraf filmography}} | ||
Saraf has been working in the film and television industry since 1969.<ref>{{Cite news |date=9 October 2018 |title=Ashok Saraf: Interesting facts about the actor |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/marathi/movies/news/ashok-saraf-interesting-facts-about-the-actor/photostory/66134710.cms |access-date=24 September 2025 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> He has acted in more than 250 Marathi films, out of which more than 100 were commercially successful.<ref>{{Cite news |date=9 October 2018 |title=Ashok Saraf: Interesting facts about the actor |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/marathi/movies/news/ashok-saraf-interesting-facts-about-the-actor/photostory/66134710.cms?picid=66134763 |access-date=24 September 2025 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> He has mostly acted in comedy films. He started his career with the Marathi movie ''Janaki'' in 1969.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |last=सिंह |first=शशि |date=4 June 2022 |title=Ashok saraf: ठाकुर तो गियो से हवलदार पांडु तक हर किरदार बनाया यादगार, कभी सुने हैं अशोक सराफ के ये किस्से? |language=hi |work=[[Amar Ujala]] |url=https://www.amarujala.com/entertainment/bollywood/ashok-saraf-birthday-know-unknown-facts-of-akshok-life-and-carrer-in-bollywood |url-status=live |access-date=17 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104142309/https://www.amarujala.com/entertainment/bollywood/ashok-saraf-birthday-know-unknown-facts-of-akshok-life-and-carrer-in-bollywood |archive-date=4 November 2023}}</ref> He then acted in the films like ''Donhi Gharacha Pahuna'', ''Jawal Ye Laju Nako'', ''Tumcha Aamcha Jamla'', ''Chimanrao Gundyabhau'', ''Deed Shahane'', ''Haldi Kunku'', ''Duniya Kari Salam'' and more during the 1970s and 1980s. He continued to work in Marathi films with [[Laxmikant Berde]], [[Sachin (actor)|Sachin]] and [[Mahesh Kothare]]. ''[[Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi]]'', ''[[Aayatya Gharat Gharoba]]'', ''[[Balache Baap Brahmachari]]'', ''[[Bhutacha Bhau]]'' and ''[[Dhum Dhadaka]]'' are some of the notable Marathi films in which Saraf acted.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 September 2014 |title='दोन्ही घरचा पाहुणा' (१९७२) या पहिल्या चित्रपटापासूनची अशोक सराफची अभिनयाची वाटचाल बहुरुपी |url=http://www.loksatta.com/manoranjan-news/marathi-actor-ashok-saraf-918137/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160302173507/http://www.loksatta.com/manoranjan-news/marathi-actor-ashok-saraf-918137/ |archive-date=2 March 2016 |access-date=14 February 2016 |website=[[Loksatta]]}}</ref> | |||
Saraf has also acted in various Marathi plays and Hindi serials. He then developed his own production house "Aniket Telefilms", which is handled by his wife [[Nivedita Joshi Saraf|Nivedita Saraf]].<ref> | Saraf has also acted in various Marathi plays and Hindi serials. He then developed his own production house "Aniket Telefilms", which is handled by his wife [[Nivedita Joshi Saraf|Nivedita Saraf]].<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |date=2 March 2018 |title=Ashok Saraf - Maharashtra Mandal Qatar |url=https://mmqatar.com/ashok-saraf/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205234447/https://mmqatar.com/ashok-saraf/ |archive-date=5 December 2023 |access-date=5 December 2023 |website=[[Maharashtra Mandal]] |language=en-US}}</ref> | ||
=== Marathi film career === | === Marathi film career === | ||
[[File:Ashok Saraf in 2019.jpg|thumb|Saraf in 2019 | [[File:Ashok Saraf in 2019.jpg|thumb|Saraf in 2019, In 1980s along with actor [[Laxmikant Berde]] Saraf did many hit [[comedy]] genre films like [[Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi]], [[Balache Baap Brahmachari]].]] | ||
Saraf had success pairing with [[Laxmikant Berde]], another comedian from Marathi cinema who has also acted in many Hindi films. With Saraf, Berde and [[Sachin Pilgaonkar]] acted in many Marathi films.<ref>{{Cite web |title=सचिन, महेश दोघांची शैली वेगळी आहे- अशोक सराफ |url=http://marathi.webdunia.com/article/marathi-film-stars/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B6-%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%98%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%80-%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%88%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80-%E0%A4%B5%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%B3%E0%A5%80-%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%87-%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%95-%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AB-110122000029_1.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160222064612/http://marathi.webdunia.com/article/marathi-film-stars/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%B6-%E0%A4%A6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%98%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%9A%E0%A5%80-%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%88%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%80-%E0%A4%B5%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%B3%E0%A5%80-%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%87-%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%95-%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AB-110122000029_1.htm |archive-date=22 February 2016 |access-date=14 February 2016 |website=Marathi Webdunia}}</ref> He tasted major success in ''[[Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi]]'' (1988), in the lead role of [[Dhananjay Mane]] with the two reigning superstars of Marathi cinema, [[Sachin Pilgaonkar]] and [[Laxmikant Berde]]. The movie was a runaway hit.<ref>{{Cite web |title=गुणी आणि दमदार अभिनेता - अशोक सराफ |url=http://www.marathiworld.com/kala-krida-m/ashok-saraf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160222004347/http://www.marathiworld.com/kala-krida-m/ashok-saraf |archive-date=22 February 2016 |access-date=14 February 2016 |website=Marathi World}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=5 August 2014 |title=अशोक सराफ |url=http://maharashtratimes.indiatimes.com/interview/Ashok-Saraf/articleshow/39645104.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160424085835/http://maharashtratimes.indiatimes.com/interview/Ashok-Saraf/articleshow/39645104.cms |archive-date=24 April 2016 |access-date=14 February 2016 |website=[[Maharashtra Times]]}}</ref> | |||
=== Hindi film career === | === Hindi film career === | ||
Saraf played important roles in Bollywood. Some of the roles which are remembered are from the films ''[[Singham]]'', ''[[Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998 film)|Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya]]'', ''[[Gupt]]'', ''[[Koyla]]'', ''[[Yes Boss (film)|Yes Boss]]'' , ''[[Joru Ka | Saraf played important roles in [[Hindi cinema|Bollywood]]. Some of the roles which are remembered are from the films ''[[Singham]]'', ''[[Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998 film)|Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya]]'', ''[[Gupt]]'', ''[[Koyla]]'', ''[[Yes Boss (film)|Yes Boss]]'', ''[[Joru Ka Ghulam]]'' and ''[[Karan Arjun]]''.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=4 June 2022 |title=बैंक से लेकर बॉलीवुड तक, कुछ ऐसा रहा है अशोक सराफ का सफर |language=hi |work=[[ABP News]] |url=https://www.abplive.com/entertainment/bollywood/ashok-saraf-celebrate-his-75th-birthday-read-here-his-interesting-journey-in-bollywood-2138963 |access-date=17 October 2023}}</ref> | ||
=== Hindi television serials === | === Hindi television serials === | ||
Saraf has also starred in television serials like ''Yeh Choti Badi Baatein'' and ''[[Hum Paanch (sitcom)|Hum Paanch]]'' (as Anand Mathur) | Saraf has also starred in successful television serials like ''Yeh Choti Badi Baatein'' and ''[[Hum Paanch (sitcom)|Hum Paanch]]'' (as Anand Mathur).<ref name=":3" /> He had a comedy show ''[[Don't Worry Ho Jayega]]'', telecast on [[Sahara TV]] in the 1990s.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
=== Marathi play career === | === Marathi play career === | ||
Saraf has played number of roles in Marathi plays in his career. Some of the important plays are ''Hamidabaichi Kothi'', '' | Saraf has played a number of roles in Marathi plays in his career. Some of the important plays are ''Hamidabaichi Kothi'', ''Anadhikrut'', ''Mano-milan'', ''He Ram Cardiogram'', ''Darling Darling'', ''Sarkha Chatit Dukhtay'', ''Laginghai'', and ''Vacuum Cleaner''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 November 2021 |title=Vacuum Cleaner Marathi Natak Review |url=https://www.rangabhoomi.com/reviews/vacuum-cleaner-marathi-natak-review/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211113024033/https://www.rangabhoomi.com/reviews/vacuum-cleaner-marathi-natak-review/ |archive-date=13 November 2021 |access-date=28 November 2021 |website=Rangbhoomi.com |language=mr}}</ref> | ||
== | == In the media == | ||
Saraf has been described in the Indian media as one of the most versatile actor. Saraf is also known by his pet name "Mama".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Naik |first=Payal Shekhar |date=4 June 2022 |title=अशोक सराफ सगळ्यांचे मामा कसे झाले ठाऊक आहे का? वाचा त्यामागची भन्नाट स्टोरी |url=https://marathi.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/do-you-know-why-ashok-saraf-called-as-mama-in-marathi-industry-141654326688695.html |work=Hindustan Times Marathi |language=mr |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref> | |||
In 2022, on the 75th birth anniversary of Saraf, a stage show were held in Mumbai by [[Zee Marathi]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=Sunday होणार स्पेशल! अशोक मामांची बहुरंगी कारकीर्द दिसणार 'या' स्पेशल कार्यक्रमात |url=https://lokmat.news18.com/entertainment/ashok-saraf-special-show-zee-marathi-75th-birthday-golden-jubilee-of-career-marathi-superstar-comedy-roles-nivedita-saraf-mhrn-725569.html |work=News18 लोकमत |language=mr |date=1 July 2022 |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Zee Marathi's Special Show to Celebrate Ashok Saraf's 50-Year Journey in Acting |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/zee-marathis-special-show-to-celebrate-ashok-sarafs-50-year-journey-in-acting-5478949.html |work=News18 |date=2 July 2022 |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref> During the 1980s, Saraf and [[Laxmikant Berde]] emerged as "superstars" in Marathi cinema, marking an unmatched phenomenon in the industry. The films of Saraf and Berde accounted for most of the [[List of highest-grossing Marathi films|box office gross]] in Marathi cinema.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sharma |first=Unnati |date=16 December 2019 |title=Laxmikant Berde, Marathi superstar who was much beyond the characters he's remembered for |url=https://theprint.in/theprint-profile/laxmikant-berde-marathi-superstar-who-was-much-beyond-the-characters-hes-remembered-for/334347/ |work=ThePrint |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Das |first=Kusumika |date=4 June 2023 |title=Happy Birthday Ashok Saraf: Karan Arjun To Yes Boss, Have A Look At Iconic Roles Of Marathi Superstar In Bollywood |url=https://www.zoomtventertainment.com/celebrity/happy-birthday-ashok-saraf-karan-arjun-to-yes-boss-have-a-look-at-iconic-roles-of-marathi-superstar-in-bollywood-news-entertainment-news-article-100744125 |work=Zoom TV |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=मराठी सिनेसृष्टीचा बादशाह आहेत अशोक सराफ, पण बॉलिवूडला त्यांची किंमत कळलीच नाही |url=https://marathi.indiatimes.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/bollywood-news/ashok-saraf-know-as-king-of-marathi-film-industry-bollywood-always-give-him-side-roll/articleshow/102048137.cms |website=Maharashtra Times |language=mr |date=23 July 2023 |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref> | |||
==Personal life== | ==Personal life== | ||
[[File:Ashok Saraf Nivedita Joshi.jpg|thumb| Saraf with wife [[Nivedita Joshi-Saraf]] at premiere of Marathi film ''[[Deool Band]]''.]] | [[File:Ashok Saraf Nivedita Joshi.jpg|thumb| Saraf with wife [[Nivedita Joshi-Saraf]] at premiere of Marathi film ''[[Deool Band]]''.]] | ||
He is married to actress [[Nivedita Joshi-Saraf]] in 1990.<ref name="life">{{cite news |title=From marrying an actor twice her age to playing a lead at 54: A look at 'Agga Bai Sasubai' fame Nivedita Ashok Saraf's life |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/marathi/from-marrying-an-actor-twice-her-age-to-playing-a-lead-at-54-a-look-at-agga-bai-sasubai-fame-nivedita-ashok-sarafs-life/photostory/72762395.cms |access-date=16 November 2020 |work=The Times of India |date=16 December 2019 |language=en}}</ref> They married at the [[Mangueshi Temple]] in [[Goa]], where Saraf's family is originally from.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lokmat.com/marathi-cinema/ashok-saraf-birthday-special-ashok-saraf-and-nivedita-saraf-married-goa-mangeshi-temple/|title=Ashok Saraf Birthday Special: अशोक सराफ आणि निवेदिता सराफ यांनी मुंबईत लग्न न करता गोव्यातील या मंदिरात केले होते लग्न|date=4 June 2019|website=Lokmat|language=mr|access-date=23 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191123101639/https://www.lokmat.com/marathi-cinema/ashok-saraf-birthday-special-ashok-saraf-and-nivedita-saraf-married-goa-mangeshi-temple/|archive-date=23 November 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> They have a son named Aniket Saraf | He is married to actress [[Nivedita Joshi-Saraf]] in 1990.<ref name="life">{{cite news |title=From marrying an actor twice her age to playing a lead at 54: A look at 'Agga Bai Sasubai' fame Nivedita Ashok Saraf's life |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/marathi/from-marrying-an-actor-twice-her-age-to-playing-a-lead-at-54-a-look-at-agga-bai-sasubai-fame-nivedita-ashok-sarafs-life/photostory/72762395.cms |access-date=16 November 2020 |work=The Times of India |date=16 December 2019 |language=en}}</ref> They married at the [[Mangueshi Temple]] in [[Goa]], where Saraf's family is originally from.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lokmat.com/marathi-cinema/ashok-saraf-birthday-special-ashok-saraf-and-nivedita-saraf-married-goa-mangeshi-temple/|title=Ashok Saraf Birthday Special: अशोक सराफ आणि निवेदिता सराफ यांनी मुंबईत लग्न न करता गोव्यातील या मंदिरात केले होते लग्न|date=4 June 2019|website=Lokmat|language=mr|access-date=23 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191123101639/https://www.lokmat.com/marathi-cinema/ashok-saraf-birthday-special-ashok-saraf-and-nivedita-saraf-married-goa-mangeshi-temple/|archive-date=23 November 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> They have a son named Aniket Saraf who is a [[chef]].<ref name="DivyaMarathi"/><ref>{{cite news |title=Aggabai Sasubai actor Nivedita Saraf wishes son Aniket on his birthday; writes a heartfelt note |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/marathi/aggabai-sasubai-actor-nivedita-saraf-wishes-son-aniket-on-his-birthday-writes-a-heartfelt-note/articleshow/75275791.cms |access-date=4 September 2020 |work=The Times of India |date=21 April 2020 |language=en}}</ref> | ||
Saraf survived a major car accident in the year 2012 on the [[Mumbai Pune Expressway]] near [[Talegaon]].<ref>{{cite news |title=अशोक सराफ अपघातातून बचावले |url=https://zeenews.india.com/marathi/news/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%80/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BE/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%95-%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AB-%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%98%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%87/29562 |access-date=4 November 2019 |work=Zee News |date=15 January 2012 |language=mr |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180513143119/http://zeenews.india.com/marathi/news/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%80/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BE/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%95-%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AB-%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%98%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%87/29562 |archive-date=13 May 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> | Saraf survived a major car accident in the year 2012 on the [[Mumbai Pune Expressway]] near [[Talegaon]].<ref>{{cite news |title=अशोक सराफ अपघातातून बचावले |url=https://zeenews.india.com/marathi/news/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%80/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BE/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%95-%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AB-%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%98%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%87/29562 |access-date=4 November 2019 |work=Zee News |date=15 January 2012 |language=mr |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180513143119/http://zeenews.india.com/marathi/news/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%80/%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%BE/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8B%E0%A4%95-%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AB-%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%98%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%87/29562 |archive-date=13 May 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
== | == Accolades == | ||
{ | {| class="wikitable" | ||
!Year | |||
!Award | |||
!Category | |||
!Film | |||
!Ref. | |||
|- | |||
|1975 | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Awards]] | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Supporting Actor|Best Supporting Actor]] | |||
|''[[Pandu Havaldar]]'' | |||
| | |||
|- | |||
|1977 | |||
|[[Filmfare Awards Marathi]] | |||
|Special Mention | |||
|''[[Ram Ram Gangaram]]'' | |||
| rowspan="5" |<ref name=":5" /> | |||
|- | |||
|1979 | |||
| rowspan="2" |[[Maharashtra State Film Awards]] | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] | |||
|''Bail Veda'' | |||
|- | |||
|1981 | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Supporting Actor|Best Supporting Actor]] | |||
| rowspan="2" |''Gondhalat Gondhal'' | |||
|- | |||
| rowspan="2" |1982 | |||
|[[Filmfare Awards Marathi]] | |||
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Marathi|Best Actor]] | |||
|- | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Awards]] | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] | |||
|''[[Ek Daav Bhutacha]]'' | |||
|- | |||
|1983 | |||
|[[Filmfare Awards Marathi]] | |||
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Marathi|Best Actor]] | |||
|''Goshta Dhamaal Namyachi'' | |||
|<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=अभिनयसम्राट अशोक सराफ |url=http://www.agrowon.com/Agrowon/20111106/5128076081435971455.htm |website=agrowon.com |date=6 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140606124617/http://www.agrowon.com/Agrowon/20111106/5128076081435971455.htm |access-date=14 February 2024|archive-date=6 June 2014 }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
|1985 | |||
| rowspan="6" |[[Maharashtra State Film Awards]] | |||
| rowspan="2" |[[Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] | |||
|''[[Bahurupi]]'' | |||
|<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=Ashok Saraf |url=http://www.indiarocking.com/entertainment/ashok-saraf.php |work=indiarocking.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422184005/http://www.indiarocking.com/entertainment/ashok-saraf.php |access-date=14 February 2024|archive-date=22 April 2016 }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
|1987 | |||
|''Prem Karuya Khullam Khulla'' | |||
|<ref name=":5" /> | |||
|- | |||
|1988 | |||
| rowspan="2" | [[Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Supporting Actor|Best Supporting Actor]] | |||
|''Maza Pati Karodpati'' | |||
|<ref name=":5" /> | |||
|- | |||
|1991 | |||
|''[[Aayatya Gharat Gharoba]]'' | |||
|<ref name=":5" /> | |||
|- | |||
= | |1992 | ||
| rowspan="2" |[[Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] | |||
|''Aapli Mansa'' | |||
|<ref name=":5" /> | |||
|- | |||
|1993 | |||
|''Vazir'' | |||
|<ref name=":5" /> | |||
|- | |||
|1996 | |||
|[[Filmfare Awards Marathi]] | |||
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Marathi|Best Actor]] | |||
|''Suna Yeti Ghara'' | |||
|<ref name=":4" /> | |||
|- | |||
|1999 | |||
|[[Screen Awards]] | |||
|Best Actor – Marathi | |||
| rowspan="2" |''Savai Hawaldar'' | |||
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=8th Annual Screen Awards |url=http://www.screenindia.com/screenawards/award96.html |work=Screen India |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020117185520/http://www.screenindia.com/screenawards/award96.html |access-date=14 February 2024|archive-date=17 January 2002 }}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
|2000 | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Awards]] | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Award for Best Comedian]] | |||
|<ref name=":5" /> | |||
|- | |||
|2004 | |||
|[[Zee Chitra Gaurav Puraskar]] | |||
|Best Actor in a Comic Role | |||
|''[[Navra Maza Navsacha]]'' | |||
# [ | |<ref name=":5" /> | ||
|- | |||
|2006 | |||
|[[Maharashtra State Film Awards]] | |||
|[[V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award|V. Shantaram Award]] | |||
|Various | |||
| | |||
|- | |||
|2008 | |||
|[[Bhojpuri Film Awards]] | |||
|Best Supporting Actor | |||
|''Mai Ka Bitua'' | |||
|<ref name=":5" /> | |||
|- | |||
|2010 | |||
|[[Maharashtracha Favourite Kon?]] | |||
|[[MFK Award for Favourite Comedian|Favourite Comedian]] | |||
|''[[Ek Daav Dhobi Pachhad]]'' | |||
|<ref>{{Cite news |title=Maharashtracha Favourite Kon? 2009 |url=http://epaper.esakal.com/eSakal/20101101/5710645887082359505.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130901232952/http://epaper.esakal.com/eSakal/20101101/5710645887082359505.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 September 2013 |work=[[Sakal]] |language=mr |date=1 November 2010 |access-date=13 February 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| rowspan="2" |2016 | |||
|[[Filmfare Awards Marathi]] | |||
|[[Filmfare Marathi Lifetime Achievement Award|Lifetime Achievement Award]] | |||
| rowspan="7" |Overall Contribution | |||
|<ref>{{cite news |last1=Valecha |first1=Rohan |last2=Risbood |first2=Vaibhavi V |last3=Sonavane |first3=Gaurav |date=28 October 2017 |title=Jio Filmfare Awards Marathi 2017: Complete winners' list |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/marathi/movies/news/jio-filmfare-awards-marathi-2017-complete-winners-list/articleshow/61280249.cms |work=The Times of India |access-date=14 February 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
|Sanskruti Kaladarpan | |||
|Kala Gaurav Award | |||
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ashok Saraf conferred with Kala Gaurav Award |url=https://marathimovieworld.com/news/ashok-saraf-conferred-with-kala-gaurav-at-skd-awards.php |work=marathimovieworld.com |date=27 April 2016 |access-date=14 February 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
|2020 | |||
|[[Pune International Film Festival|Pune International Film Festival Distinguished Awards]] | |||
|Outstanding Contribution to Indian Cinema | |||
|<ref>{{cite news |title=Ashok Saraf to receive PIFF award |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/pune-news/ashok-saraf-to-receive-piff-award-101638195447594.html |work=Hindustan Times |date=29 November 2021 |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| rowspan="3" |2022 | |||
|[[ABP Majha|ABP Majha Awards]] | |||
| rowspan="2" |Special Mention | |||
|<ref>{{Cite news |title=अशोक सराफ, राणी बंग, रितेश देशमुख यांच्यासह नऊ जणांचा माझा सन्मान पुरस्काराने गौरव |url=https://marathi.abplive.com/news/maharashtra/majha-sanman-2022-riteish-deshmukh-ashok-saraf-amruta-subhash-honoured-1089953 |work=ABP |language=mr |date=14 August 2022 |access-date=13 February 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
|[[Fakt Marathi Cine Sanman]] | |||
| | |||
|- | |||
|[[Sangeet Natak Akademi Award]] | |||
|Acting | |||
|<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Announcement of Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships (Akademi Ratna) |url=https://sangeetnatak.gov.in/public/uploads/annoucement/1709191095_Final%20Press%20Release%20for%20Sangeet%20Natak%20Akademki%20Fellowship,%20Sangeet%20Natak%20Akademi%20Awards%20and%20Ustad%20Bismilla%20Khan%20Yuva%20Puraskar%20for%20the%20years%202022%20and%202023.pdf |website=Sangeet Natak Akademi |location=New Delhi |date=27 February 2024 |access-date=17 March 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
| rowspan="3" |2023 | |||
|[[Zee Chitra Gaurav Puraskar]] | |||
|[[Zee Chitra Gaurav Lifetime Achievement Award|Lifetime Achievement Award]] | |||
|<ref>{{cite news |title=Zee Chitra Gaurav 2023: 'अशोक सराफ म्हणजे...', झी चित्रगौरव पुरस्कार सोहळ्यात मराठी कलाकार Emotional, मामांच्याही डोळ्यात पाणी {{!}} Zee Chitra Gaurav 2023 comedy king veteran actor ashok saraf received jeevan gaurav puraskar |url=https://zeenews.india.com/marathi/entertainment/zee-chitra-gaurav-2023-comedy-king-veteran-actor-ashok-saraf-received-jeevan-gaurav-puraskar/700026/amp#ip=1 |work=Zee News |language=mr |date=23 March 2023 |access-date=14 February 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
|[[Fakt Marathi Cine Sanman]] | |||
|[[Fakt Marathi Cine Sanman for Best Actor in a Supporting Role|Best Supporting Actor]] | |||
|''[[Ved (film)|Ved]]'' | |||
| | |||
|- | |||
| colspan="2" |[[Maharashtra Bhushan]] | |||
| rowspan="2" |Overall Contribution | |||
|<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bose |first1=Mrityunjay |date=30 January 2024 |title=Ashok Saraf to be conferred with Maharashtra Bhushan |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/maharashtra/ashok-saraf-to-be-conferred-with-maharashtra-bhushan-2871289 |work=Deccan Herald |access-date=14 February 2024}}</ref> | |||
|- | |||
|2025 | |||
|MaTa Sanman | |||
|Special Award | |||
|<ref>{{Cite news |last=बेंद्रे |first=अनिश |date=12 March 2025 |title=पाणी, इंद्रायणीचा 'मटा सन्मान'वर ठसा; वैदेही, समीर, शर्वरी सर्वोत्कृष्ट, विजेत्यांची संपूर्ण यादी |url=https://marathi.indiatimes.com/entertainment/mata-sanmaan/news/mata-sanman-2025-winners-list-aadinath-kothare-vaidehi-parshurami-sharvari-jog-sameer-paranjape-won-best-actor-awards/articleshow/118915210.cms |work=Maharashtra Times |language=mr |access-date=22 March 2025}}</ref> | |||
|} | |||
=== | == Awards and honours == | ||
{{ | * [[Padma Shri]] (2025) - India's fourth-highest civilian honour, from the Government of India.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 May 2025 |title=Marathi actor Ashok Saraf honoured with Padma Shri |url=https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/regional-indian-cinema-news/article/marathi-actor-ashok-saraf-honoured-with-padma-shri-23553543 |access-date=28 May 2025 |website=Mid-day |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Padma Awards 2025: Ashok Saraf, Mamata Shankar, Arijit Singh, Ajith Kumar honoured by President Droupadi Murmu |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/entertainment/ashok-saraf-mamata-shankar-arijit-singh-shekhar-kapur-among-recipients-honoured-by-president-droupadi-murmu/cid/2103082}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=27 May 2025 |title=अशोक सराफ यांचा राष्ट्रपती द्रौपदी मुर्मूंच्या हस्ते पद्मश्री पुरस्काराने गौरव, म्हणाले- "माझ्या जीवनातील विशेष क्षण..." |url=https://www.lokmat.com/filmy/marathi-cinema/padma-awards-2025-marathi-actor-ashok-saraf-awarded-with-padmashri-by-president-draupadi-murmu-a-a971/ |access-date=28 May 2025 |website=Lokmat |language=mr}}</ref> | ||
| | * [[Maharashtra Bhushan]] (2023) - Highest civilian honour in the Indian state of Maharashtra.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Ashok Saraf Receives Maharashtra Bhushan Award - Highest Civilian Honour |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/ashok-saraf-receives-maharashtra-bhushan-award-highest-civilian-honour/articleshow/107932487.cms |access-date=28 May 2025 |website=Times of India}}</ref> | ||
* [[Sangeet Natak Akademi Award]] (2022) - It is the highest Indian recognition given to people in the field of performing arts.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Ashok Saraf, Rajeev Verma, Bombay Jayashri to receive Sangeet Natak Akademi Award |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/ashok-saraf-rajeev-verma-bombay-jayashri-to-receive-sangeet-natak-akademi-award-2914742 |access-date=28 May 2025 |website=deccanherald}}</ref> | |||
* [[V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award|V. Shantaram Award]] (2006) - It is an award given by the Government of Maharashtra to long-serving film personalities in Marathi cinema.<ref>{{Cite news |title=State to fete Rajnikant, Ashok Saraf |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/report-state-to-fete-rajnikant-ashok-saraf-1025646 |access-date=28 May 2025 |website=dna india}}</ref> | |||
}} | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
| Line 337: | Line 233: | ||
{{Commons}} | {{Commons}} | ||
* {{IMDb name}} | * {{IMDb name}} | ||
* {{Rotten Tomatoes person|ashok_saraf|Ashok Saraf}} | * {{Rotten Tomatoes person|ashok_saraf|Ashok Saraf}} | ||
* {{Bollywood Hungama person}} | * {{Bollywood Hungama person}} | ||
{{Padma Shri Award Recipients in Art}} | |||
{{Authority control}} | {{Authority control}} | ||
| Line 353: | Line 249: | ||
[[Category:Marathi actors]] | [[Category:Marathi actors]] | ||
[[Category:Male actors from Mumbai]] | [[Category:Male actors from Mumbai]] | ||
[[Category:21st-century Indian comedians]] | |||
[[Category:Marathi comedians]] | |||
[[Category:Indian male stage actors]] | [[Category:Indian male stage actors]] | ||
[[Category:Recipients of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award]] | |||
[[Category:20th-century Indian comedians]] | |||
[[Category:Recipients of the Padma Shri in arts]] | |||
[[Category:Comedians from Mumbai]] | |||
Latest revision as of 14:03, 23 February 2026
Ashok Saraf | |
|---|---|
 Saraf in 2011 | |
| Born | 4 June 1947 |
| Other names | Mahanayak, Ashok Samrat, Mama |
| Occupation |
|
| Years active | 1969–present |
Works | Full list |
| Spouse(s) | ( m. 1990) |
| Children | 1 |
| Awards | 4 Filmfare Marathi Awards Filmfare Marathi Lifetime Achievement Award |
| Honours | Padma Shri (2025) Maharashtra Bhushan (2023) Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2022) V. Shantaram Award (2006) |
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Ashok Saraf (born 4 June 1947) is an Indian actor and comedian, known for his work in Marathi and Hindi films along with theatre in both languages. Saraf has received several awards including eleven Maharashtra State Film Awards and four Filmfare Awards Marathi. He is referred to as the Mahanayak (lit. 'Greatest Actor'), Ashok Samrat or Mama of the Marathi film industry,[1][2][3] In 2016, Saraf received Filmfare Marathi Lifetime Achievement Award for his Contribution to Marathi cinema.[4] In 2023, he received the Maharashtra Bhushan, the highest civilian honour in the Indian state of Maharashtra.[5] Saraf received Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honour, from the Government of India in 2025.[6][7]
From the early 1980s, Saraf started getting leading roles in Marathi films. The combination of Ashok Saraf, Laxmikant Berde, Sachin Pilgaonkar and Mahesh Kothare created the "comedy films wave" in Marathi cinema from 1985 that lasted for more than a decade. His successful Marathi films as the lead hero include Ek Daav Bhutacha (1982), Dhum Dhadaka (1985), Gammat Jammat (1987), Bhutacha Bhau (1989), Balache Baap Brahmachari (1989), Ashi hi Banawa Banavi (1988) and Aayatya Gharat Gharoba (1991).
In Bollywood he worked in many movies such as Karan Arjun (1995), Yes Boss (1997), Joru Ka Ghulam (2000) and Navra Mazha Navsacha (2004)Singham (2011) Navra Mazha Navsacha 2 (2024)and in many Hindi television sitcoms.[8]
Early life[edit | edit source]
Saraf was born in Bombay, (present day Mumbai) on 4 June 1947.[9][10] He grew up in the South Mumbai neighbourhood of Chikhalwadi and went to DGT Vidyalay for his education.[11] He was named "Ashok" after veteran actor Ashok Kumar.[10]
Career[edit | edit source]
Saraf has been working in the film and television industry since 1969.[12] He has acted in more than 250 Marathi films, out of which more than 100 were commercially successful.[13] He has mostly acted in comedy films. He started his career with the Marathi movie Janaki in 1969.[3] He then acted in the films like Donhi Gharacha Pahuna, Jawal Ye Laju Nako, Tumcha Aamcha Jamla, Chimanrao Gundyabhau, Deed Shahane, Haldi Kunku, Duniya Kari Salam and more during the 1970s and 1980s. He continued to work in Marathi films with Laxmikant Berde, Sachin and Mahesh Kothare. Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi, Aayatya Gharat Gharoba, Balache Baap Brahmachari, Bhutacha Bhau and Dhum Dhadaka are some of the notable Marathi films in which Saraf acted.[14]
Saraf has also acted in various Marathi plays and Hindi serials. He then developed his own production house "Aniket Telefilms", which is handled by his wife Nivedita Saraf.[15]
Marathi film career[edit | edit source]
Saraf had success pairing with Laxmikant Berde, another comedian from Marathi cinema who has also acted in many Hindi films. With Saraf, Berde and Sachin Pilgaonkar acted in many Marathi films.[16] He tasted major success in Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi (1988), in the lead role of Dhananjay Mane with the two reigning superstars of Marathi cinema, Sachin Pilgaonkar and Laxmikant Berde. The movie was a runaway hit.[17][18]
Hindi film career[edit | edit source]
Saraf played important roles in Bollywood. Some of the roles which are remembered are from the films Singham, Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Gupt, Koyla, Yes Boss, Joru Ka Ghulam and Karan Arjun.[19]
Hindi television serials[edit | edit source]
Saraf has also starred in successful television serials like Yeh Choti Badi Baatein and Hum Paanch (as Anand Mathur).[15] He had a comedy show Don't Worry Ho Jayega, telecast on Sahara TV in the 1990s.[19]
Marathi play career[edit | edit source]
Saraf has played a number of roles in Marathi plays in his career. Some of the important plays are Hamidabaichi Kothi, Anadhikrut, Mano-milan, He Ram Cardiogram, Darling Darling, Sarkha Chatit Dukhtay, Laginghai, and Vacuum Cleaner.[20]
In the media[edit | edit source]
Saraf has been described in the Indian media as one of the most versatile actor. Saraf is also known by his pet name "Mama".[21]
In 2022, on the 75th birth anniversary of Saraf, a stage show were held in Mumbai by Zee Marathi.[22][23] During the 1980s, Saraf and Laxmikant Berde emerged as "superstars" in Marathi cinema, marking an unmatched phenomenon in the industry. The films of Saraf and Berde accounted for most of the box office gross in Marathi cinema.[24][25][26]
Personal life[edit | edit source]
He is married to actress Nivedita Joshi-Saraf in 1990.[27] They married at the Mangueshi Temple in Goa, where Saraf's family is originally from.[28] They have a son named Aniket Saraf who is a chef.[9][29]
Saraf survived a major car accident in the year 2012 on the Mumbai Pune Expressway near Talegaon.[30]
Accolades[edit | edit source]
Awards and honours[edit | edit source]
- Padma Shri (2025) - India's fourth-highest civilian honour, from the Government of India.[43][44][45]
- Maharashtra Bhushan (2023) - Highest civilian honour in the Indian state of Maharashtra.[46]
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2022) - It is the highest Indian recognition given to people in the field of performing arts.[47]
- V. Shantaram Award (2006) - It is an award given by the Government of Maharashtra to long-serving film personalities in Marathi cinema.[48]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ "Patrya Maruti Ganpati's one-of-a-kind tribute to Ashok Saraf". Pune Mirror. 9 September 2022. Archived from the original on 17 October 2023. Retrieved 15 October 2023.
Ashok Saraf was honoured for his lifetime achievement and thought it would be a nice idea for the procession display and his contribution to the film industry is remarkable, and the "Mahanayak" deserves to be shown love and gratitude in every way possible
- ↑ "Kon Honar Crorepati : मराठी सिनेसृष्टीचे महानायक अशोक सराफ येणार 'कोण होणार करोडपती'च्या मंचावर". ABP Majha (in मराठी). 22 June 2022. Retrieved 15 October 2023.
मराठी मनोरंजनसृष्टी ज्यांना अशोक मामा म्हणून ओळखते असं अभिनयाचं ज्येष्ठ अभिनेते अशोक सराफ
[Veteran actor Ashok Saraf, who is known as Ashok Mama in the Marathi entertainment industry] - ↑ 3.0 3.1 सिंह, शशि (4 June 2022). "Ashok saraf: ठाकुर तो गियो से हवलदार पांडु तक हर किरदार बनाया यादगार, कभी सुने हैं अशोक सराफ के ये किस्से?". Amar Ujala (in हिन्दी). Archived from the original on 4 November 2023. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf Films and Shows – Apple TV". Apple TV. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
- ↑ "Veteran actor Ashok Saraf to be conferred with Maharashtra Bhushan Award 2023". India Today. 30 January 2024. Retrieved 31 January 2024.
- ↑ "Nivedita Saraf expresses her happiness as Ashok Saraf is conferred with Padma Shri: 'It was long overdue' - Exclusive". The Times of India. 26 January 2025.
- ↑ "Padma Awards 2025 announced". pib.gov.in. Retrieved 5 February 2025.
- ↑ "त्या मुलीने मामा बनवले". Maharashtra Times. 12 July 2015. Archived from the original on 22 February 2016. Retrieved 14 February 2016.
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 "B'day: पत्नीपेक्षा 18 वर्षांनी मोठे आहेत अशोक सराफ, या कारणामुळे गोव्यात केले होते लग्न". Divya Marathi (in मराठी). 4 June 2018. Archived from the original on 28 April 2023. Retrieved 12 July 2019.
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 "Ashok Saraf's punctuality". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 5 December 2023.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf: Interesting facts about the actor". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 5 December 2023.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf: Interesting facts about the actor". The Times of India. 9 October 2018. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf: Interesting facts about the actor". The Times of India. 9 October 2018. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
- ↑ "'दोन्ही घरचा पाहुणा' (१९७२) या पहिल्या चित्रपटापासूनची अशोक सराफची अभिनयाची वाटचाल बहुरुपी". Loksatta. 16 September 2014. Archived from the original on 2 March 2016. Retrieved 14 February 2016.
- ↑ 15.0 15.1 "Ashok Saraf - Maharashtra Mandal Qatar". Maharashtra Mandal. 2 March 2018. Archived from the original on 5 December 2023. Retrieved 5 December 2023.
- ↑ "सचिन, महेश दोघांची शैली वेगळी आहे- अशोक सराफ". Marathi Webdunia. Archived from the original on 22 February 2016. Retrieved 14 February 2016.
- ↑ "गुणी आणि दमदार अभिनेता - अशोक सराफ". Marathi World. Archived from the original on 22 February 2016. Retrieved 14 February 2016.
- ↑ "अशोक सराफ". Maharashtra Times. 5 August 2014. Archived from the original on 24 April 2016. Retrieved 14 February 2016.
- ↑ 19.0 19.1 "बैंक से लेकर बॉलीवुड तक, कुछ ऐसा रहा है अशोक सराफ का सफर". ABP News (in हिन्दी). 4 June 2022. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
- ↑ "Vacuum Cleaner Marathi Natak Review". Rangbhoomi.com (in मराठी). 12 November 2021. Archived from the original on 13 November 2021. Retrieved 28 November 2021.
- ↑ Naik, Payal Shekhar (4 June 2022). "अशोक सराफ सगळ्यांचे मामा कसे झाले ठाऊक आहे का? वाचा त्यामागची भन्नाट स्टोरी". Hindustan Times Marathi (in मराठी). Retrieved 27 March 2024.
- ↑ "Sunday होणार स्पेशल! अशोक मामांची बहुरंगी कारकीर्द दिसणार 'या' स्पेशल कार्यक्रमात". News18 लोकमत (in मराठी). 1 July 2022. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
- ↑ "Zee Marathi's Special Show to Celebrate Ashok Saraf's 50-Year Journey in Acting". News18. 2 July 2022. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
- ↑ Sharma, Unnati (16 December 2019). "Laxmikant Berde, Marathi superstar who was much beyond the characters he's remembered for". ThePrint. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
- ↑ Das, Kusumika (4 June 2023). "Happy Birthday Ashok Saraf: Karan Arjun To Yes Boss, Have A Look At Iconic Roles Of Marathi Superstar In Bollywood". Zoom TV. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
- ↑ "मराठी सिनेसृष्टीचा बादशाह आहेत अशोक सराफ, पण बॉलिवूडला त्यांची किंमत कळलीच नाही". Maharashtra Times (in मराठी). 23 July 2023. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
- ↑ "From marrying an actor twice her age to playing a lead at 54: A look at 'Agga Bai Sasubai' fame Nivedita Ashok Saraf's life". The Times of India. 16 December 2019. Retrieved 16 November 2020.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf Birthday Special: अशोक सराफ आणि निवेदिता सराफ यांनी मुंबईत लग्न न करता गोव्यातील या मंदिरात केले होते लग्न". Lokmat (in मराठी). 4 June 2019. Archived from the original on 23 November 2019. Retrieved 23 November 2019.
- ↑ "Aggabai Sasubai actor Nivedita Saraf wishes son Aniket on his birthday; writes a heartfelt note". The Times of India. 21 April 2020. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
- ↑ "अशोक सराफ अपघातातून बचावले". Zee News (in मराठी). 15 January 2012. Archived from the original on 13 May 2018. Retrieved 4 November 2019.
- ↑ 31.00 31.01 31.02 31.03 31.04 31.05 31.06 31.07 31.08 31.09 "Ashok Saraf". indiarocking.com. Archived from the original on 22 April 2016. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
- ↑ 32.0 32.1 "अभिनयसम्राट अशोक सराफ". agrowon.com. 6 November 2011. Archived from the original on 6 June 2014. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
- ↑ "8th Annual Screen Awards". Screen India. Archived from the original on 17 January 2002. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
- ↑ "Maharashtracha Favourite Kon? 2009". Sakal (in मराठी). 1 November 2010. Retrieved 13 February 2024.
{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link) - ↑ Valecha, Rohan; Risbood, Vaibhavi V; Sonavane, Gaurav (28 October 2017). "Jio Filmfare Awards Marathi 2017: Complete winners' list". The Times of India. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf conferred with Kala Gaurav Award". marathimovieworld.com. 27 April 2016. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf to receive PIFF award". Hindustan Times. 29 November 2021. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
- ↑ "अशोक सराफ, राणी बंग, रितेश देशमुख यांच्यासह नऊ जणांचा माझा सन्मान पुरस्काराने गौरव". ABP (in मराठी). 14 August 2022. Retrieved 13 February 2024.
- ↑ "Announcement of Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships (Akademi Ratna)" (PDF). Sangeet Natak Akademi (Press release). New Delhi. 27 February 2024. Retrieved 17 March 2024.
- ↑ "Zee Chitra Gaurav 2023: 'अशोक सराफ म्हणजे...', झी चित्रगौरव पुरस्कार सोहळ्यात मराठी कलाकार Emotional, मामांच्याही डोळ्यात पाणी | Zee Chitra Gaurav 2023 comedy king veteran actor ashok saraf received jeevan gaurav puraskar". Zee News (in मराठी). 23 March 2023. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
- ↑ Bose, Mrityunjay (30 January 2024). "Ashok Saraf to be conferred with Maharashtra Bhushan". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 14 February 2024.
- ↑ बेंद्रे, अनिश (12 March 2025). "पाणी, इंद्रायणीचा 'मटा सन्मान'वर ठसा; वैदेही, समीर, शर्वरी सर्वोत्कृष्ट, विजेत्यांची संपूर्ण यादी". Maharashtra Times (in मराठी). Retrieved 22 March 2025.
- ↑ "Marathi actor Ashok Saraf honoured with Padma Shri". Mid-day. 28 May 2025. Retrieved 28 May 2025.
- ↑ "Padma Awards 2025: Ashok Saraf, Mamata Shankar, Arijit Singh, Ajith Kumar honoured by President Droupadi Murmu".
- ↑ "अशोक सराफ यांचा राष्ट्रपती द्रौपदी मुर्मूंच्या हस्ते पद्मश्री पुरस्काराने गौरव, म्हणाले- "माझ्या जीवनातील विशेष क्षण..."". Lokmat (in मराठी). 27 May 2025. Retrieved 28 May 2025.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf Receives Maharashtra Bhushan Award - Highest Civilian Honour". Times of India. Retrieved 28 May 2025.
- ↑ "Ashok Saraf, Rajeev Verma, Bombay Jayashri to receive Sangeet Natak Akademi Award". deccanherald. Retrieved 28 May 2025.
- ↑ "State to fete Rajnikant, Ashok Saraf". dna india. Retrieved 28 May 2025.