Asrani Death: Every Breath Became a Struggle — The Lung Disease That Claimed the Legendary Comedian's Life

Veteran Bollywood actor and comedian Asrani, who made generations laugh with his unmatched comic timing, passed away at the age of 84. He breathed his last on Monday, October 20, around 3 pm, leaving fans heartbroken across the country.

According to reports, Asrani had been battling a severe lung ailment for some time. His condition worsened in recent days, and despite treatment, he could not recover. Doctors have linked his deteriorating health to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) — a long-term respiratory condition that makes breathing increasingly difficult, especially in polluted environments.

How Asrani’s Health Declined

Sources revealed that the actor had been admitted to Mumbai’s Arogya Nidhi Hospital for five days. Doctors treating him confirmed that his COPD had worsened significantly. The veteran actor reportedly faced extreme shortness of breath and had to be placed on constant oxygen support.

Medical experts warn that pollution from Diwali firecrackers can be extremely harmful to those suffering from lung diseases. The smoke releases sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, which irritate and constrict the airways, worsening symptoms like breathlessness, cough, and bronchitis.

For elderly patients, such exposure can reduce lung capacity by up to 30 percent, according to pulmonologists.

How Bad Was Mumbai’s Air on Diwali?

On October 20, Diwali day, Mumbai witnessed alarming levels of air pollution. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an average PM2.5 concentration of 339 µg/m³ — almost six times higher than the World Health Organization’s safe limit of 50 µg/m³.

These microscopic particles enter deep into the lungs and cause inflammation, leading to respiratory distress. The Indian Chest Society has found that respiratory infections typically rise by nearly 40 percent after Diwali due to poor air quality.

Why Pollution Is a Silent Killer for Lung Patients

According to Dr. Radhika Sharma, Senior Consultant Pulmonologist at Vinayak Health Hospital, Delhi, the effects of Diwali smog can linger for up to a week. “Even healthy people experience breathing discomfort, but for patients with COPD or asthma, it can reduce lung function by up to 25 percent,” she said.

She adds that PM2.5 particles not only harm the lungs but can also enter the bloodstream, raising the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications.

How to Protect Yourself During Pollution Peaks

Dr. Harshal R. Salve, Additional Professor at AIIMS, Delhi, cautions that Diwali pollution can worsen asthma and COPD symptoms in the short term and increase the risk of stroke and heart disease in the long term. At an AQI of 335 or above, respiratory illness cases can spike by up to 40 percent.

To reduce exposure, experts recommend:

• Wearing N95 or KN95 masks when outdoors

• Using air purifiers indoors

• Avoiding morning and late-night walks during smog-heavy days

• Staying hydrated and including antioxidant-rich foods in your diet

• Consulting a doctor immediately if shortness of breath worsens

Asrani’s passing is a grim reminder of how dangerous air pollution can be, especially for those battling chronic lung conditions. The man who brought smiles to millions lost his life to a disease that suffocates silently — one breath at a time.