Bollywood actor Govinda and filmmaker David Dhawan were once one of the most popular duos in the industry, creating box office hits like Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Hero No. 1, and Haseena Maan Jayegi. However, their collaboration came to an abrupt halt, and for years, the reason behind their fallout remained unclear. Recently, Govinda’s wife, Sunita Ahuja, opened up about the real story behind the rift in a candid conversation.
Govinda refused to play ‘second lead’ to Akshay Kumar, says wife Sunita; discusses fallout with David Dhawan
Sunita shared in an interview that their fallout stemmed from David Dhawan suggesting that Govinda should take on second lead roles, much like Amitabh Bachchan and Akshay Kumar did in certain movies. This was something Govinda, who was at the peak of his career in the 90s, found difficult to accept.
A suggestion that didn’t sit well
While speaking on Timeout With Ankit, Sunita recalled that David Dhawan’s advice didn’t resonate well with Govinda. According to her, Dhawan suggested that her husband should transition into secondary roles, acknowledging the industry’s changing dynamics. “Maybe he couldn’t take it, that ‘Why should I be second to Akshay or whatever,’” Sunita shared, reflecting on Govinda’s resistance to the idea.
She emphasized that Govinda had always been a solo star, leading films to massive success during the 90s, which may have contributed to his reluctance to step back from lead roles. “In the 90s, he only delivered solo hits with David, and that’s probably why he didn’t like the idea of playing second fiddle,” she explained.
Navigating the changing industry
Sunita, while understanding both sides of the situation, also mentioned how times had changed. “Heroes should know when their time is up,” she said, hinting that stars need to adapt to the evolving industry. However, she acknowledged that it’s challenging for actors like Govinda, who were at the pinnacle of their career, to accept roles that are less prominent. “He was the top star in the 90s, but it’s not going to work if he still wants to live in that world,” Sunita remarked.
The influence of ‘Yes Men’
Another key reason for the fallout, Sunita hinted, could be the influence of the people around them. She noted that “yes men” tend to feed certain narratives, convincing actors that they should always be in leading roles. “They often say, ‘You are a hero and must only do those parts,’ but that’s not how the industry works anymore,” she added, highlighting how these influences may have played a role in Govinda’s reluctance to adapt.
Respecting both sides
Though their relationship hit a rocky patch, Sunita was clear that she didn’t think either party was entirely wrong. “David wasn’t wrong in suggesting the shift, but Govinda was also right in feeling the way he did, as he had never done second lead roles before,” she said. The last time Govinda and David Dhawan worked together was in Do Knot Disturb in 2009, marking the end of a successful collaboration that spanned several years.
Despite their differences, Govinda and David Dhawan’s films remain a testament to their once-great partnership that defined an era of Bollywood comedy.
Also Read: Govinda’s wife Sunita Ahuja opens up about tragic loss of premature daughter who died at three months: “Her lungs hadn’t developed”
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