Potdar had been undergoing treatment at Jupiter Hospital in Thane for age-related ailments and breathed his last there. While the exact cause of death has not yet been disclosed, his funeral is scheduled to be held on August 19 in Thane. News of his passing has led to an outpouring of tributes from across the Indian film and television fraternity.
Before making his mark in cinema, Potdar served in the Indian Armed Forces, retiring with the rank of Captain, and later held a senior position at the Indian Oil Company. Despite a secure professional life, his passion for acting remained undimmed, leading him to enter the film industry in the 1980s. What followed was a prolific career spanning more than 125 films in both Hindi and Marathi, as well as memorable performances on television.
Potdar became a familiar face with significant roles in acclaimed films 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. His characters, often layered with authority and depth, resonated deeply with audiences across generations.
Yet, it was his portrayal of a strict but endearing engineering professor in Rajkumar Hirani’s blockbuster 3 Idiots that etched his name indelibly into popular culture. The professor’s interactions with Aamir Khan’s Rancho, particularly the iconic moment when he demanded, “Hey, kehna kya chahate ho?”, remain among the most fondly remembered scenes in contemporary Indian cinema. His lines continue to be quoted widely in conversations, memes, and pop culture references.
Potdar’s contribution was not limited to films alone. He brought the same dedication and authenticity to television, featuring in Wagle Ki Duniya, Majha Hoshil Na, Mrs. Tendulkar, and Bharat Ki Khoj, among others. His ability to move seamlessly between stage, television, and the silver screen earned him admiration and respect within the entertainment industry.
Colleagues and fans have remembered him as a disciplined, humble, and hardworking artist whose simplicity in real life contrasted with the intensity of the roles he portrayed. Social media has since been flooded with condolences, with admirers sharing clips from his most iconic performances and recalling his warmth off-screen.
Achyut Potdar’s journey from soldier and corporate professional to one of India’s most recognized character actors is a story of resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to art. His body of work remains a treasure for Indian cinema and television, ensuring that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and film lovers alike.