📌 Key Points
- Priyadarshan insisted Govinda stick to Neeraj Vohra’s script for ‘Bhaagam Bhaag’.
- Amitabh Bachchan used to personally pick up Govinda for ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ shoots.
- Govinda claims he’s been unfairly defamed for not being punctual.
- Govinda defends his tardiness, citing the impossibility of managing multiple shifts.
Director Priyadarshan revealed he had one condition for Govinda before casting him in ‘Bhaagam Bhaag’ due to the actor’s reputation for tardiness. Govinda has addressed these punctuality criticisms, citing the unrealistic demands of multiple shifts.
Priyadarshan’s Condition for Govinda
Govinda has long been notorious for his tardy nature. Multiple people have complained and even joked about how he would fail to turn up to sets on times, often running days late. That was something that bothered ace filmmaker Priyadarshan as well when he was contemplating signing Govinda for his comedy caper Bhaagam Bhaag.
Govinda would also often improvise his lines on set, something the director did not appreciate. “Govinda used to put his own lines, so I told him, ‘I’m already paying Neeraj Vohra (screenwriter), I don’t need another writer,” he said.
Govinda’s Defense on Punctuality Issues
He also recalled how Amitabh used to come to Govinda’s bungalow to pick him up for the Bade Miyan Chote Miyan shoot, and said, “He used to go in his car and honk for him to come along to the shoot. He would bring him to set in his car. That’s why Bachchan ji is still working. If you want to throw tantrums, first reach that level. A producer pays you to work, not for your tantrums.”
On an episode of Too Much with Twinkle Khanna and Kajol, Govinda finally addressed the rumours of his struggles with punctuality. Govinda offered a candid explanation. He said, “Mai defame huwa hu ki mai time pe nahi aata hu. Maine kaha ‘kiske baap ke andar taaqat hai ki woh 5 shift kare aur time pe aaye. Possible hi nahi hai, ho hi nahi sakta. Itni zyada shooting kaise karega aadmi? Yaha toh ek picture ke andar thak jate hai log (I’ve been defamed for not arriving on time. Who has the strength to do five shifts and still come on time? It’s just not possible. How can someone do so much shooting? Here, people get exhausted doing even one film).”
Amitabh Bachchan’s Role in Ensuring Govinda’s Timeliness
Govinda said gossip circles and media outlets have repeatedly exaggerated the issue, turning minor delays into headline news. He emphasised that sometimes delays are outside his control, such as due to traffic, scheduling constraints, or waiting on other departments. He felt that the criticism didn’t take into account the professional challenges actors often face. He also urged people to reflect before spreading rumours, stressing that respect should be mutual among coworkers in the film fraternity.
Priyadashan’s next release will bhi Bhooth Bangla with Akshay Kumar.
Govinda’s justification highlights the intense pressures actors face, yet Priyadarshan’s anecdote underscores the importance of professionalism and punctuality in Bollywood. The debate around Govinda’s work ethic continues to spark interest.
