Padma Shri Ashok Saraf: Must-watch films of Marathi film legend
What's the story
One of the most beloved actors in Marathi cinema, Ashok Saraf was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri recently.
Known for his impeccable comic timing and unique dialogue delivery style, he has entertained audiences in both Marathi and Hindi films for years.
His collaborations with Laxmikant Berde, Sachin Pilgaonkar, and Mahesh Kothare sparked a comedy wave in Marathi cinema from 1985 that lasted over a decade.
Here are some of his must-watch films.
Film 1
'Ek Daav Bhutacha': Saraf's commendable performance as a ghost
In Ek Daav Bhutacha, Saraf shines as the ghost of a Maratha soldier.
This hilarious farce, replete with slapstick humor and witty punch lines, was a box office success.
Directed by Ravi Namade, the 1982 film also stars Dilip Prabhavalkar, Ranjana Deshmukh, Mohan Kothiwan, Ram Nagarkar, Sulochna Latkar, and Mohan Joshi.
You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video.
Film 2
'Dhum Dhadaka': A comedy hit in Saraf's career
Dhum Dhadaka, a Kothare directorial comedy, is another must-watch.
Released in 1985, it revolves around three young men who go to great lengths to win mighty industrialist Dhanajirao Wakde's approval for their marriages.
The film was a big hit and is one of the most successful films in Saraf's career.
It also stars Kothare, Berde, and Nivedita Joshi-Saraf.
Film 3
'Prem Karuya Khullam Khulla': Another tie-up with Berde
Another must-watch is Prem Karuya Khullam Khulla, a comedy film directed by Girish Ghanekar.
The plot revolves around two characters, Bajrang (Saraf) and Shekhar (Berde), who, change identities, plot elaborate schemes that mutually benefit each other.
The story revolves around a big-shot director who is in need of a servant. Bajrang, a struggling actor, pretends to be the house help in hopes of getting his big break. Meanwhile, Shekhar is the director's son who's in love with the neighbor unrequitedly.
Film 4
'Pheka Pheki': A light entertainer loved by audiences
Pheka Pheki, directed by Chetan Desai and Bipin Varti, is a light entertainer with family drama and misunderstanding tropes mixed in.
The plot revolves around Rajan (Saraf) and his life with wife Viju (Savita Prabhune). Although they are happy, Rajan is distraught with his wife being too suspicious all the time.
One day, Rajan is forced to spend a night outside with a woman. Panicking, Rajan lies about his whereabouts, sparking chaos.
This inspired Golmaal Returns years later.
Film 5
'Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi': Remake of a classic Hindi film
Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi is a remake of the 1966 Hindi film Biwi Aur Makan directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee.
The plot follows four friends looking for rented accommodation who are compelled to pose as married couples since the landlady only rents to such tenants.
This results in two of the friends, played by Berde and Pilgaonkar, dressing as women in a hilarious comedy-drama.