View source for Govinda actor

{{short description|Indian film actor}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2022}}
{{Infobox officeholder
| name                = Govinda
| nickname            = Hero No. 1, Raja babu,  Emperor, Diamond, Chichi <ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.cosmopolitan.in/celebrity/a9883/we-bet-you-didnt-know-these-20-bollywood-pet-names/ |title=20 Bollywood Stars and their nick names revealed |work=Cosmopolitian |access-date=15 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730112908/http://www.cosmopolitan.in/celebrity/a9883/we-bet-you-didnt-know-these-20-bollywood-pet-names/ |archive-date=30 July 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| image               = Govinda_at_Bright_Advertising_Awards_announcement.jpg
| imagesize           = 
| caption             = Govinda in 2013
| office              = [[Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha]]
| constituency        = [[Mumbai North (Lok Sabha Constituency)|Mumbai North]]
| term_start          = 2004
| term_end            = 2009
| predecessor         = [[Ram Naik]]
| successor           = [[Sanjay Nirupam]]
| birth_name          = Govind Arun Ahuja
| birth_date          = {{birth date and age|df=yes|1963|12|21}}<ref>{{cite web |last1=K. Jha |first1=Subhash |title=Govinda turns 50 |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/features/type/view/id/5931 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131223065155/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/features/type/view/id/5931 |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 December 2013 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |access-date=21 April 2016 |date=21 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Birthday special quiz: How well do you know Govinda? |url=http://www.mid-day.com/articles/birthday-special-quiz-how-well-do-you-know-govinda/15856151 |website=[[Mid-Day]] |access-date=21 April 2016 |date=21 December 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Sharma |first1=Dhriti |title='Hero No 1' Govinda turns 51! |url=http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/celebrity/hero-no-1-govinda-turns-51_1518225.html |website=[[Zee News]] |access-date=21 April 2016 |date=21 December 2014}}</ref>
| birth_place         = [[Bombay]], [[Maharashtra]], [[India]]
| party               = [[Indian National Congress]] (2004–2008) <ref name=O>{{cite web | url=https://worldrepublicnews.com/popular-bollywood-star-govinda-joins-congress/ | title=Popular Bollywood Star Govinda Joins Congress | date=16 July 2022 }}</ref><ref name=T>{{Cite web |url=https://m.timesofindia.com/india/govinda-decides-to-quit-politics/articleshow/2714453.cms |title=Govinda decides to quit politics |newspaper=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>
| spouse              = {{marriage|Sunita Ahuja|1987}}
| blank1              = Years active
| data1               = 1986–2019 
| children            = 2
| parents             = [[Arun Kumar Ahuja]] (father)<br />[[Nirmala Devi]] (mother)
| residence           = [[Juhu]], [[Mumbai]], India
| religion            = <!--Must be reliably sourced-->
| relatives           = See [[List of Hindi film clans#Govinda family|Govinda family]]<ref>[http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2013/oct/241013-govinda-wants-to-see-his-niece-ragini-khannas-punjabi-film.htm Govinda wants to see his niece Ragini Khanna's Punjabi film]. Mid-day.com (24 October 2013). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref>
| occupation          = {{hlist|Actor|producer|politician|dancer|comedian}}
| signature           = 
| relations           = 
}}

'''Govind Arun Ahuja''' (born 21 December 1963) is an [[Indian people|Indian]] actor, comedian, dancer, and former politician, who has appeared in more than 165  [[Hindi cinema|Hindi-language & Punjabi language]] film and established himself one of most popular actors in India. Govinda is known for his [[slapstick]] performances and dancing skills. He has received 12 [[Filmfare Awards|Filmfare Award]] nominations and won two [[Filmfare Special Award]]s and a [[Filmfare Award for Best Performance in a Comic Role|Filmfare Award for Best Comedian]]. In June 1999, he was voted the tenth-greatest star of stage or screen in last thousand years by [[BBC News Online]] poll.<ref>{{cite news |date=1 July 1999 |title=Bollywood star tops the poll |work=BBC News |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/381017.stm |access-date=4 May 2010}}</ref>

Starting out as an [[Action hero|action]] and [[Music of Bollywood|dancing]] hero in the 1980s,  His first film was 1986's ''[[Ilzaam]]'', which was a hit and other  earlier [[List of highest-grossing Indian films|box-office]] hits include ''[[Love 86]]'' (1986), ''[[Hatya]]'' (1988), ''[[Jeete Hain Shaan Se]]'' (1988), ''[[Do Qaidi]]'' (1989), and ''[[Hum (film)|Hum]]'' (1991). However, Govinda would go on to reinvent himself as a comic hero in the 1990s after his role as a mischievous young [[National Cadet Corps (India)|NCC]] cadet in the 1992 romance ''[[Shola Aur Shabnam (1992 film)|Shola Aur Shabnam]]'' and 1993 action comedy  ''[[Aankhen (1993 film)|Aankhen]]'' in which he played dual role. Following the huge success of these films, Govinda had lead roles in several commercially successful comedy films, including ''[[Raja Babu (film)|Raja Babu]]'' (1994), ''[[Coolie No. 1 (1995 film)|Coolie No. 1]]'' (1995), ''[[Andolan (1995 film)|Andolan]]'' (1995), ''[[Hero No. 1]]'' (1997), ''[[Deewana Mastana]]'' (1997), ''[[Dulhe Raja]]'' (1998), ''[[Bade Miyan Chote Miyan]]'' (1998), ''[[Anari No.1]]'' (1999) and ''[[Jodi No.1|Jodi No. 1]]'' (2001). He would also receive a [[Filmfare Award for Best Performance in a Comic Role|Filmfare Award for Best Comedian]] for ''[[Haseena Maan Jaayegi|Haseena Maan Jayegi]]'' (1999) and a Filmfare Special Award for ''[[Saajan Chale Sasural]]'' (1996).

In the 2000 film ''[[Hadh Kar Di Aapne]]'', he played six roles.{{Efn|6 roles played by him in a single film : Raju (the main protagonist) and his mother, father, sister, grandmother and grandfather}} After a series of several unsuccessful films in the 2000s, his later commercial hits include ''[[Bhagam Bhag]]'' (2006),  ''[[Partner (2007 film)|Partner]]'' (2007), and ''[[Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty|Holiday]]'' (2014), in these he played supporting roles. In 2015, Govinda became a judge on Season 2 of [[Zee TV]]'s [[reality show]], ''[[Dance India Dance Super Moms]]''.<ref name="auto">{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/govinda-makes-comeback-on-telly/1/424222.html/ |title=Govinda makes comeback on telly |website=Indiatoday.intoday.in}}</ref><ref name="auto1">{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/television/making-a-tv-comeback-govinda-returns-with-did-super-moms/article1-1327184.aspx/ |title=Making a TV comeback: Govinda returns with DID Super Moms |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150401055810/http://www.hindustantimes.com/television/making-a-tv-comeback-govinda-returns-with-did-super-moms/article1-1327184.aspx |archive-date=1 April 2015}}</ref><ref name="auto2">{{cite web |url=http://www.bollywoodlife.com/tv/dance-india-dance-super-moms-review-govinda-comes-back-to-tv-makes-a-grand-entry-as-dancing-judge// |title=Dance India Dance Super Moms Season 2 first episode review: Govinda comes back to TV; makes a grand entry as dancing judge |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150405124938/http://www.bollywoodlife.com/tv/dance-india-dance-super-moms-review-govinda-comes-back-to-tv-makes-a-grand-entry-as-dancing-judge/ |archive-date=5 April 2015 |df=dmy-all}}</ref> It received the highest [[Target rating point|TRP]] of any reality-show opening episode at that time.<ref name="auto3">{{cite web |url=http://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/did-supermoms-season-2-records-the-highest-opening-trp-is-govinda-the-lucky-charm// |title=DID Supermoms Season 2 records the highest opening TRP, is Govinda the lucky charm? |website=Bollywoodlife.com |date=7 April 2015}}</ref> 

Govinda was a member of the [[Parliament of India]] from 2004 to 2009. As the [[Indian National Congress]] party member, he was got elected as [[Member of parliament, Lok Sabha|Member of Parliament]] (MP) form the [[Mumbai North]] constituency of [[Maharashtra, India]] in the [[2004 Indian general election|Lok Sabha elections]] of 2004,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/govinda-the-mp-seen-seldom-in-house-constituency/316082/ |title=Govinda the MP seen seldom in House, constituency |access-date=29 May 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080918202920/http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Govinda-the-MP-seen-seldom-in-House-constituency/316082/ |archive-date=18 September 2008}}</ref> defeating [[Ram Naik]] of the [[Bharatiya Janata Party]]. He is {{Peacock inline|date=May 2023}}currently working on a famous and popular [[Bengali language|Bengali]] show on [[Zee Bangla]] [[Dance Bangla Dance]] 2021, Season 11 as Judge which started airing on 22 May 2021.{{Citation needed|date=May 2023}}

== Early life and background ==
Govinda was born into a Hindu [[Punjabi people|Punjabi]] family on 21 December 1963 to former actor [[Arun Kumar Ahuja|Aroon]] (alias Arun Kumar Ahuja) and singer-actress [[Nirmala Devi]].<ref>{{cite book |author1=Gulzar |author2=Saibal Chatterjee |title=Encyclopaedia of Hindi Cinema |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8y8vN9A14nkC&pg=PT579 |year=2003 |publisher=Popular Prakashan |isbn=978-81-7991-066-5 |page=579}}</ref>

Govinda's mother hailed from [[Varanasi]], [[Uttar Pradesh]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Geet Govinda |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/193811.cms |website=[[The Times of India]] |access-date=22 April 2016 |date=22 September 2003}}</ref> Aroon came to [[Mumbai]] from [[Gujranwala]], [[Punjab Province, British India|Punjab]] which is now in [[Punjab, Pakistan]], to become an actor in the late 1930s. He is best known for appearing in [[Mehboob Khan]]'s ''[[Aurat (1940 film)|Aurat]]'' (1940).<ref name="virar">{{cite web |last1=Gupta |first1=Priya |title=Govinda: One day mummy predicted her own death to me |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Govinda-One-day-mummy-predicted-her-own-death-to-me/articleshow/45230262.cms |website=[[The Times of India]] |access-date=22 April 2016 |date=22 November 2014}}</ref> Aroon's professional career as an actor lasted for 15 years, from 1939 to 1954. In these years, he worked as a hero in 30 films. He produced one unsuccessful film which caused financial loss.<ref name="virar" /> The family, living in a [[bungalow]] on [[Mumbai]]'s [[Carter Road Promenade|Carter Road]], moved to [[Virar]], a northern Mumbai [[suburb]], where Govinda was born.<ref name="virar" /> The youngest of 6 children,<ref name="Indiatoday">{{cite web |last1=Chopra |first1=Anupama |author-link1=Anupama Chopra |title=The lovable hero |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/once-dismissed-as-downmarket-govinda-emerges-as-indias-entertainer-no.1/1/274582.html |website=[[India Today]] |access-date=22 April 2016 |date=28 July 1997}}</ref> he was given the pet name "Chi Chi," meaning "little finger" in [[Punjabi language|Punjabi]].<ref name="Indiatoday" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Mimi to Duggu: Celebs' nicknames and the story behind it |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/Mimi-to-Duggu-Celebs-nicknames-and-the-story-behind-it/photostory/48466804.cms |website=The Times of India |access-date=22 April 2016}}</ref>

== Acting career ==

=== {{anchor|Early film career}}1986–90: Debut and breakthrough ===
[[File: David Dhawan Govinda Chunky Pandey still3.jpg|thumb|left|alt=Three smiling men|Left to right, [[David Dhawan]], Govinda, and [[Chunky Pandey]] at a birthday party for [[Bobby Deol]]]]
After Govinda received a [[Bachelor of Commerce]] degree from Vartak College, Vasai, his father suggested a career in films. Around this time, Govinda saw the film ''[[Disco Dancer]]''; afterward, he practiced for hours and circulated a promotional VHS cassette. He was offered jobs in a fertilizer commercial and an [[Hyderabad Allwyn Limited|Allwyn]] [[Advertising|ad]].

He was offered the role of Abhimanyu in the popular mythological serial ''[[Mahabharat (1988 TV series)|Mahabharat]]'' (1988) during its casting and he even had auditioned for it. Still, soon he bagged his first Bollywood film. His first lead role was in ''[[Tan-Badan]]'' opposite [[Khushbu]], directed by his uncle Anand. Govinda began shooting for his next film, ''[[Love 86]]'', in June 1985.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://in.rediff.com/movies/2007/aug/03govinda.htm |title=Govinda gets chatty on radio |website=In.rediff.com |date=3 August 2007 |access-date=6 July 2010}}</ref> His first release was ''[[Ilzaam]]'' (1986) which was a box office success, soon followed by another hit ''Love 86'' that same year.

He went on to star in many films of various genres between 1987 and 1989 including the family dramas ''[[Khudgarz]]'' (1987), ''[[Dariya Dil]]'' (1988), ''[[Ghar Ghar Ki Kahani (1988 film)|Ghar Ghar Ki Kahani]]'' (1988) and action and drama films including ''[[Hatya]]'' (1988), ''[[Marte Dam Tak]]'' (1987), ''[[Jeete Hain Shaan Se]]'' (1988) and ''[[Jung Baaz]]'' (1989). Govinda worked with [[David Dhawan]] for the first time in the 1989 action film ''[[Taaqatwar]]'' and worked with [[Rajinikanth]] and [[Sridevi]] in ''[[Gair Kanooni]]'' that same year.

=== {{anchor|1990–1999: Critical and commercial success}}1991–99: Comedy King, commercial success and superstardom ===

[[File:Govinda at green carpet of IIFA 2014.jpg|thumb|right|alt=Govinda and Anil Kapoor shake hands, as Govinda's wife looks on|[[Anil Kapoor]], Govinda and his wife at the 2014 [[International Indian Film Academy Awards|IIFA]]]]
In 1990, Govinda starred in the cult classic ''[[Awaargi]]'', with [[Anil Kapoor]] and [[Meenakshi Sheshadri]]. ''[[Swarg]]'' and ''[[Maha-Sangram]]'' co-starring [[Vinod Khanna]], [[Aditya Pancholi]] and [[Madhuri Dixit]] were also successful. In 1991, he appeared alongside [[Amitabh Bachchan]] and [[Rajnikanth]] in the hit film ''[[Hum (film)|Hum]]''. In 1992 he appeared in ''[[Zulm Ki Hukumat]]'', an Indian version of ''[[The Godfather]]'', and [[David Dhawan]]'s ''[[Shola Aur Shabnam (1992 film)|Shola Aur Shabnam]]'' opposite actress [[Divya Bharti]]. His successful collaboration with Dhawan continued with ''[[Aankhen (1993 film)|Aankhen]]'', the highest-grossing film of 1993. He and Dhawan would make several successful comedy films which included: ''[[Raja Babu (film)|Raja Babu]]'' (1994), ''[[Coolie No. 1 (1995 film)|Coolie No. 1]]'' (1995), ''[[Saajan Chale Sasural]]'' (1996), ''[[Banarasi Babu (1997 film)|Banarasi Babu]]'' (1997), ''[[Deewana Mastana]]'' (1997), ''[[Hero No. 1]]'' (1997), ''[[Bade Miyan Chote Miyan]]'' (1998) and ''[[Haseena Maan Jaayegi]]'' (1999). The actor sang in some of his films: "Meri Pant Bhi Sexy" in ''[[Dulaara (1994 film)|Dulaara]]'' and "Gori Gori" in ''[[Shola Aur Shabnam (1992 film)|Shola Aur Shabnam]]''. Dhawan and other directors frequently cast him with actresses such as [[Karishma Kapoor]], [[Juhi Chawla]] and [[Raveena Tandon]] during this decade.

=== 2000–05: Slump and break from films ===
[[File:Govinda and Akshay Kumar on the set of Bhagam Bhag.jpg|thumb|left|alt=Govinda and Akshay Kumar holding an English flag|Govinda (left) with [[Akshay Kumar]] on the set of ''[[Bhagam Bhag]]'']]
Govinda's career had a setback during the early 2000s after a series of commercially unsuccessful films. His only major hit film during the early 2000s was ''[[Jodi No. 1]]'' (2001). His other films'',<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ibosnetwork.com/asp/filmbodetails.asp?id=Kunwara |title=Kunwar |website=Ibosnetwork.coma |access-date=1 February 2014 |archive-date=29 June 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130629072711/http://ibosnetwork.com/asp/filmbodetails.asp?id=Kunwara |url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Hadh Kar Di Aapne]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.apunkachoice.com/titles/had/hadh-kar-di-aapne/mid_17152/reviews-editor/ |title=The Hadh Kar Di Aapne Movies Review |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202233755/http://www.apunkachoice.com/titles/had/hadh-kar-di-aapne/mid_17152/reviews-editor/ |archive-date=2 February 2014}}</ref> [[Kyo Kii... Main Jhuth Nahin Bolta]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2001/sep/21kyu.htm |title=Kyonkii Main Jhuth Nahi bolta |website=Rediff.com}}</ref> ''and ''[[Ek Aur Ek Gyarah]]'' were moderately successful. He received nominations for the [[Filmfare Award for Best Performance in a Comic Role|Filmfare Awards for Best Performance in a Comic Role]] for ''Jodi No. 1, Kyo Kii... Main Jhuth Nahin Bolta'' and ''[[Akhiyon Se Goli Maare]]'' (2002).

He turned down roles in ''[[Taal (film)|Taal]]'', ''[[Gadar: Ek Prem Katha]]'' and ''[[Devdas (2002 Hindi film)|Devdas]]'', all of which were highly successful.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/storyOld.php?storyId=21896 |title=Sorry |website=Indianexpress.com |access-date=6 July 2010}}</ref>

Govinda then joined the Indian National Congress. He won a seat in Parliament from Mumbai North by defeating five-time MP Ram Naik, a former [[Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas|Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas]], by over 50,000 votes in the 2004 general election.

The actor took a break from films during the period of 2003 to 2005. He had no new film releases in 2004 and 2005, although some of his delayed films were released during this time, (such as 2005's ''[[Khullam Khulla Pyaar Karen]]'' and ''[[Ssukh]]''— produced by Govinda and directed by his brother, Kirti Kumar and 2006's ''[[Sandwich (2006 film)|Sandwich]]'') which were box office failures.

=== {{anchor|2006–09: Acting comeback}}2006–09: Comeback ===
[[File:Govinda at Life Partner success party.jpg|thumb|right|alt=Govinda in a black satin shirt with Amrita Rao, a young actress|Govinda with [[Amrita Rao]] at a ''[[Life Partner]]'' party]]
Govinda made a comeback to films in late 2006 with the comedy ''[[Bhagam Bhag]]'' (directed by [[Priyadarshan]]), in which he appeared with Akshay Kumar and [[Lara Dutta]]. It was Govinda and Kumar's first film together.

His first release of 2007 was director [[Nikhil Advani]]'s big-budget drama, ''[[Salaam-e-Ishq: A Tribute to Love]]''. The all-star cast also included [[Shannon Esra]], [[Salman Khan]], [[Priyanka Chopra]], [[Anil Kapoor]], [[Juhi Chawla]], [[Akshaye Khanna]], [[Ayesha Takia]], [[John Abraham (actor)|John Abraham]], [[Vidya Balan]], [[Sohail Khan]] and [[Isha Koppikar]]. Govinda played Raju, a taxi driver who helps the Caucasian Stephanie (Shannon Esra) who is frantically trying to find her lover. Raju eventually falls in love with her. Although the film was a [[box office bomb|box office disappointment]], Govinda's performance was praised.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indiafm.com/movies/review/12727/index.html |title=Salaam-E-Ishq : Movie Review by Taran Adarsh |website=Indiafm.com |access-date=6 July 2010}}</ref>

His second release that year was a comedy directed by David Dhawan's ''[[Partner (2007 film)|Partner]]'' co-starring [[Salman Khan]], [[Katrina Kaif]] and [[Lara Dutta]]. The film grossed {{Currency|300 million|INR}} in India during its opening week, the second-highest domestic opening-week gross for an Indian film at that time.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/article/32734.html |title=IndiaGlitz - Box office analysis - Bollywood Movie News |access-date=3 August 2007 |archive-date=23 August 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070823201955/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/article/32734.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> Govinda won several awards for his performance in ''Partner'' including an [[IIFA Award for Best Performance in a Comic Role|IIFA Award for Best Comedian]] and a [[Zee Cine Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Male]]. The previously made ''[[Jahan Jaaeyega Hamen Paaeyega]]'' was directed by his nephew Janmendra alias Dumpy, who was 17 years of age at that time.{{Citation needed|date=March 2020}} ''Jahan Jaaeyega Hamen Paaeyega'' released in 2007 and did poorly at the box office. The film also introduced two of Govinda's nephews, [[Krishna Abhishek]] and [[Vinay Anand]]. Govinda also appeared in the song "Deewangi Deewangi", from ''[[Om Shanti Om]]'' (2007) starring [[Shah Rukh Khan|Shahrukh Khan]].

In 2008, Govinda appeared in ''[[Money Hai Toh Honey Hai]]'', directed by Bollywood choreographer [[Ganesh Acharya]], which was a box office failure. This was followed by a [[TK Rajeev Kumar]] directed comedy, ''[[Chal Chala Chal]]''. Govinda's performance was praised, and the film was successful. That year Salman Khan invited Dhawan and Govinda on his show, ''[[10 Ka Dum]]'', to celebrate the success of ''Partner''.

The following year, he played a lawyer in the hit, ''[[Life Partner]]'', and his performance was praised by the critics.<ref>{{cite web |title=Life Partner |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-review/Life-Partner/movie-review/4894696.cms |website=Timesofindia.indiatimes.com}}</ref> Govinda rejoined Dhawan and [[Vashu Bhagnani]] for ''[[Do Knot Disturb]]''; despite good reviews from critics, it was unsuccessful at the box office.<ref>{{cite web |title=Govinda on his new film, Do Knot Disturb, its meaning, working with David Dhawan & Riteish Deshmukh, Lara Dutta & Sushmita Sen |url=http://www.gomolo.in/features/article.aspx?ArticleID=191 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090908161319/http://www.gomolo.in/features/article.aspx?ArticleID=191 |archive-date=8 September 2009}}</ref>

=== {{anchor|2010–present: Recent work}}2010–present ===
In 2010, Govinda appeared in [[Mani Ratnam]]'s bilingual project, ''[[Raavan (2010 Hindi film)|Raavan]]'', with [[Abhishek Bachchan]] and [[Aishwarya Rai]]. He played a [[Ministry of Environment and Forests (India)|Forest Ministry]] employee who takes Vikram's character through the woods in search of a wanted criminal. Govinda denied reports that his character was a contemporary version of [[Hanuman]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Jha |first=Subhash K |url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2008/nov/041108-govinda-vikram-mani-ratnam-films-forest-officer-role.htm |title=Apna Sapna, Mani Mani |website=Mid-day.com |date=4 November 2008 |access-date=6 July 2010}}</ref> and his performance in the minor role was praised.<ref>{{cite web |title=Raavan: Movie Review |url=http://in.movies.yahoo.com/movies/Raavan/reviewdetails-981.html |publisher=Yahoo! Movies |access-date=8 July 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100622055659/http://in.movies.yahoo.com/movies/Raavan/reviewdetails-981.html |archive-date=22 June 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Movie Review: 'Raavan' a feast for the senses |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/6067604.cms |publisher=Economic Times |access-date=8 July 2010 |date=19 June 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100622053907/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/6067604.cms |archive-date=22 June 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Movie Review: Raavan |url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/jun/180610-Movie-Review-Raavan.htm |website=Mid-day.com |access-date=8 July 2010}}</ref>

In 2011, he appeared in [[Jagmohan Mundhra]]'s adult comedy, ''[[Naughty @ 40]]''. Although the film received negative reviews, Govinda's performance was appreciated.<ref>[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/movie-review/Naughty-40/movie-review/8118442.cms Naughty @40 Movie Review {2/5}: Critic Review of Naughty @40 by Times of India]. Timesofindia.indiatimes.com. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref> He also appeared in Rajnish Thakur's comedy, ''[[Loot (2011 film)|Loot]]'', and voiced Bajrangi the monkey for [[Nikhil Advani]]'s animated ''[[Delhi Safari]]''.

In 2013, Govinda co-starred with [[Priyanka Chopra]] in [[K. C. Bokadia]]'s box office failure, ''[[Deewana Main Deewana]]'', which had been made about ten years earlier. The film, a Hindi remake of the Tamil film ''[[Priyamudan]]'', was directed by [[Vincent Selva]]; Govinda's performance as a villain was praised.<ref>[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/hindi/Deewana-Main-Deewana/movie-review/18271688.cms Deewana Main Deewana Movie Review {2.5/5}: Critic Review of Deewana Main Deewana by Times of India]. Timesofindia.indiatimes.com. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref> He made his Bengali debut as a [[deputy inspector general of police]] in Dipak Sanyal's ''[[Samadhi]]'', co-starring [[Gracy Singh]] and [[Sayali Bhagat]], another box office failure.<ref>[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/movie-review/25938560.cms Samadhi Movie Review {1/5}: Critic Review of Samadhi by Times of India]. Timesofindia.indiatimes.com (17 November 2013). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref>

[[File:Govinda, Johny & Rakhi Sawant at ICFPA concert.jpg|thumb|left|alt=Many people onstage|Govinda (second from right) with [[Johny Lever]] (extreme left) at ICFPA concert in 2013]]

In 2014, Govinda appeared in [[A.R. Murugadoss]]'s ''[[Holiday (2014 film)|Holiday]]'', starring Akshay Kumar and [[Sonakshi Sinha]].<ref>[http://bollywhat.boards.net/thread/55/holiday-akshay-kumar-sonakshi-govinda?page=1&scrollTo=81 Holiday (*ing Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Govinda) |]. Bollywhat.boards.net. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref> This was the second collaboration of Govinda and Akshay Kumar after ''Bhagam Bhag''.

Three years after his last starring role he starred in [[Yash Raj Film]]'s ''[[Kill Dil]]'', directed by [[Shaad Ali]], with [[Ranveer Singh]], [[Parineeti Chopra]] and [[Ali Zafar]].<ref>[http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/govinda-ranveer-singh-kill-dil-shaad-ali-rani-mukerji-parineeti-chopra/1/342198.html It's a dream come true to work with Govinda, says Ranveer – Movies News]. Indiatoday.intoday.in (7 February 2014). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref> Govinda last played an antagonist in 2000's ''[[Shikari (2000 film)|Shikari]]''. In the film posters, he posed with a gun.<ref>[http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/govinda-is-all-set-to-kill-for-paisa-in-kill-dil/ Pink pants, maroon shirt – we have got our Govinda back with 'Kill Dil']. The Indian Express. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref><ref>[http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-kill-dil-third-teaser-poster-revealed-govinda-to-kill-for-paisa-2019315 'Kill Dil' third teaser poster revealed: Govinda to Kill for Paisa]. Dnaindia.com (17 September 2014). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20141009032352/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/snapshot-govinda-wears-pink-pants-with-a-swag-in-this-new-poster-for-kill-dil/499636-8-66.html News18.com: CNN-News18 Breaking News India, Latest News Headlines, Live News Updates]. Ibnlive.in.com. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref><ref>[http://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainmenttags/govinda/govinda-ready-kill-paisa Govinda is ready to kill for 'paisa']. Pinkvilla. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref> The trailer was released on 18 September 2014.<ref>[http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/watch-ranveer-parineeti-ali-govinda-killing-it-in-kill-dil-trailer/ Watch 'Kill Dil' trailer: Ranveer Singh, Govinda, Ali Zafar turn baddies]. The Indian Express. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/bollywood/ranveer-singh-parineeti-chopra-govinda-ali-kill-dil-trailer-out--17116.html |title=Kill Dil trailer out: Govinda overshadows Ranveer, Ali in this another 'Goliyon ki Rasleela' (watch video) |date=18 September 2014 |website=Indiatvnews.com |access-date=2 October 2018}}</ref><ref>[http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/ranveer-govinda-ali-turn-baddies-kill-dil-1719057.html Ranveer Singh, Govinda, Ali turn baddies for Kill Dil- Entertainment News, Firstpost]. Firstpost.com. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Govinda, Ranveer, Parineeti entertain in Kill Dil trailer |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/watch-govinda-ranveer-parineeti-entertain-in-kill-dil-trailer/article1-1265438.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140918120411/http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/watch-govinda-ranveer-parineeti-entertain-in-kill-dil-trailer/article1-1265438.aspx |archive-date=18 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Kill Dil Trailer: Govinda, Parineeti Impress in Desi Western |url=http://www.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/kill-dil-trailer-govinda-parineeti-impress-in-desi-western-174575.html |website=Indiatimes.com |date=18 September 2014}}</ref> The trailer was appreciated by [[Amitabh Bachchan]].
<ref>{{cite web |title=Kill Dil trailer gets thumbs up from Amitabh Bachchan |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/kill-dil-trailer-gets-thumbs-up-from-amitabh-bachchan/1/384136.html |website=Indiatoday.intoday.in}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Amitabh Bachchan praises 'Kill Dil' trailer |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Amitabh-Bachchan-praises-Kill-Dil-trailer/articleshow/42995436.cms |website=Timesofindia.indiatimes.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Amitabh Bachchan praises Ranveer, Parineeti's 'Kill Dil' trailer |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-praises-ranveer-parineetis-kill-dil-trailer/ |website=Indianexpress.com |date=20 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/amitabh-bachchan-praises-kill-dil-trailer-668531 |title=Amitabh Bachchan Praises Kill Dil Trailer |website=Ndtv.com |access-date=30 January 2022}}</ref> The film was released on 14 November 2014; although ''[[Kill Dil]]'' was not a commercial success, Govinda's performance was praised by critics.<ref>{{cite web |title=Movie review by Anupama Chopra: Govinda shines in Shaad Ali's Kill Dil |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/reviews/movie-review-by-anupama-chopra-govinda-shines-in-kill-dil/article1-1286140.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141125021010/http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/reviews/movie-review-by-anupama-chopra-govinda-shines-in-kill-dil/article1-1286140.aspx |archive-date=25 November 2014}}</ref>

He played a superstar in ''[[Happy Ending (2014 film)|Happy Ending]]'' with [[Saif Ali Khan]] and [[Ileana D'Cruz]],<ref>{{cite web |title=Govinda plays a superstar in 'Happy Ending' |date=27 November 2013 |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/govinda-plays-a-superstar-in-happy-ending/ |website=Indianexpress.com}}</ref> his first appearance with Khan. Its trailer was released on 9 October 2014.<ref>{{cite news |title=Happy Ending trailer: Saif Ali Khan, Ileana D'Cruz and Govinda make a funny combo |newspaper=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Happy-Ending-trailer-Saif-Ali-Khan-Ileana-DCruz-and-Govinda-make-a-funny-combo/articleshow/44770901.cms}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Happy Ending trailer: Saif pulls a Castle, Govinda sums up Bollywood's mantra |date=11 October 2014 |url=http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/happy-ending-trailer-saif-pulls-castle-govinda-sums-bollywoods-mantra-1751347.html |website=Firstpost.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Watch trailer: Saif Ali Khan, Govinda in Happy Ending |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/watch-trailer-saif-ali-khan-govinda-in-happy-ending/article1-1273507.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011213350/http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/watch-trailer-saif-ali-khan-govinda-in-happy-ending/article1-1273507.aspx |archive-date=11 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/happy-Ending-Trailer-Released!-hindi-news-116059 |title='Happy Ending' Trailer Released! – Bollywood Movie News |website=IndiaGlitz.com |date=9 October 2014 |access-date=2 October 2018}}</ref> The film was released on 21 November 2014; it was a box office failure, but Govinda's performance was praised.<ref>[http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/happy-ending-movie-review-saif-ali-khan-govinda-illeana-dcruz/1/403016.html Movie review: Happy Ending is a decent one-time watch – Movies News]. Indiatoday.intoday.in (21 November 2014). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref>

In 2015 Govinda appeared in ''Hey Bro'', starring Nupur Sharma and [[Ganesh Acharya]].<ref>[http://www.ianslive.in/index.php?param=news/Ganesh_Acharya_Govinda_unveil_the_trailer_of_Hey_Bro-462801/ENTERTAINMENT/15 Welcome To IANS Live – ENTERTAINMENT – Ganesh Acharya, Govinda unveil the trailer of 'Hey Bro']. Ianslive.in (16 January 2015). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref>

In 2017, Govinda was seen as a cop in his home production ''[[Aa Gaya Hero]]'', which was directed by Deepankar Senapati. The film also stars former Miss World Richa Sharma, [[Ashutosh Rana]], [[Murali Sharma]], [[Makarand Deshpande]] and [[Harish Kumar (actor)|Harish Kumar]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20140201210704/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-09-14/news-interviews/42061404_1_govinda-kolkata-girl-ashutosh-rana Thupakki: Richa Sharma plays Govinda's wife | Bengali Movie News – Times of India]. Articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref> ''Aa Gaya Hero'' will be Govinda's third home production, after ''Hatya'' and ''Ssukh''.<ref>[http://www.boxofficecapsule.com/news/Govinda-To-Play-Cop-In-ABHINAY-CHAKRA-4640 Govinda To Play Cop In â€˜ABHINAY CHAKRAâ€™] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202184614/http://www.boxofficecapsule.com/news/Govinda-To-Play-Cop-In-ABHINAY-CHAKRA-4640 |date=2 February 2014 }}. Boxofficecapsule.com. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref> It was released on 17 March 2017. The film was not successful at the box office. He later starred alongside Varun Sharma in [[FryDay]] in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 April 2018 |title=Decoding Govinda: The Rise and Fall of India's Comedy King |url=https://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/decoding-govinda-rise-fall-indias-comedy-king/ |access-date=27 September 2021 |website=Koimoi |language=en-US}}</ref> His last theatrical release [[Rangeela Raja]] in which he played a [[dual role]] in 2019, was panned by critics and audiences, and managed to recover only 1% of its budget.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/rangeela-raja-movie-review-for-the-love-of-govinda-don-t-watch-this-film-zero-star/story-PCzf8tuppzOtf0otw14WVM.html|title=Rangeela Raja movie review: For the love of Govinda, don't watch this film. Zero star|publisher=[[Hindustan Times]]|author=Raja Sen|date=18 January 2019}}</ref>

He appeared as Judge in ''[[Zee Bangla]]''{{'}}s ''[[Dance Bangla Dance]]'' in its Grand Finale in 2016 and 2018.

From 22 May he has appear again as Judge for all episodes in ''[[Zee Bangla]]''{{'}}s ''[[Dance Bangla Dance]]'' <ref>{{Cite web |title=Zee Bangla launches 11th season of its dance reality show Dance Bangla Dance |url=https://bestmediainfo.com/2021/05/zee-bangla-launches-11th-season-of-its-dance-reality-show-dance-bangla-dance/ |website=Bestmediainfo.com |date=24 May 2021 |language=bn}}</ref>

==Personal life ==
{{See also|List of Hindi film clans#Govinda family|label 1=Govinda family}}[[File:Govinda with daughter Narmmadaa at Bright Advertising Awards announcement.jpg|thumb|alt=A smiling Govinda and his daughter, wearing sunglasses|Govinda with his daughter, [[Tina Ahuja]], amid an award event]]His brother, Kirti Kumar, was an actor, producer, director and singer. His sister, Kaamini Khanna, was a writer, music director, and singer. Govinda's uncle Anand Singh (assistant to director [[Hrishikesh Mukherjee]]), introduced him in ''[[Tan-Badan]]''. Singh's sister-in-law, Sunita Munjal, fell in love with Govinda at this time, and they were married on 11 March 1987, with their marriage remaining a secret for four years.<ref>{{cite web |title=Filmfare&nbsp;— Print Edition |url=http://downloads.movies.indiatimes.com/site/june2001/ivw3.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100518215357/http://downloads.movies.indiatimes.com/site/june2001/ivw3.html |archive-date=18 May 2010 |access-date=6 July 2010 |website=Downloads.movies.indiatimes.com}}</ref> They have two children: daughter Tina Ahuja and son Yashvardhan. Tina made her Bollywood debut in the ''[[Second Hand Husband]]'' (2015)

Govinda has six nephews and two nieces who are in the Mumbai entertainment industry: actors [[Vinay Anand]], [[Krushna Abhishek|Krishna Abhishek]], Aryan, Arjun Singh, [[Ragini Khanna]], [[Amit Khanna]], [[Arti Singh|Aarti Singh]] and director Janmendra Kumar Ahuja (alias Dumpy). Govinda's brother-in-law, Devendra Sharma, has appeared in several Hindi films.

Govinda was seriously injured on 5 January 1994 while travelling to a studio for the shooting of ''[[Khuddar]]''. The actor's car collided with another car, and he sustained head injuries. Although he was bleeding profusely, Govinda did not cancel the shoot; after seeing a doctor, he worked until midnight.<ref>{{cite web |title=Govinda&nbsp;— From Rags To Riches ...Contd |url=http://living.oneindia.in/celebrity/bollywood-stars/govinda-biography-politics2.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207141236/http://living.oneindia.in/celebrity/bollywood-stars/govinda-biography-politics2.html |archive-date=7 February 2009 |access-date=13 January 2011 |publisher=One India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Inside Govinda's secret life |url=http://ww.itimes.com/photo/govindas-rarest-pics-52b04bd5d8c9d |website=Itimes.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Hero no. 1: An interview with Govinda |url=http://gulfnews.com/life-style/people/hero-no-1-an-interview-with-govinda-1.191097 |website=Gulfnews.com}}</ref>

== Political career ==
In 2004, Govinda joined the [[Indian National Congress|Congress Party]] and was elected to the [[Lok Sabha]] (the [[lower house]] of the [[Parliament of India|Indian parliament]]) from [[Mumbai]] by 50,000 votes over the five-term incumbent.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://164.100.47.134/newls/homepage.aspx?mpsno=4054 |title=Lok Sabha |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080620075225/http://164.100.47.134/newls/homepage.aspx?mpsno=4054 |archive-date=20 June 2008}}</ref>

During the elections, he said his agenda would be ''prawaas'' (transportation), ''swasthya'' (health) and ''gyaan'' (education). In the field of transportation, he claimed 80% credit for the quadrupling of the [[Borivali]]-Virar section of the [[Western Railway zone]]. According to official sources, he made some efforts in the fields of health and education. The [[Thane]] district collector said in an interview that Govinda had committed money from his "local area development fund" (allocated to each MP by the government) to construct ''[[anganwadi]]s'' and solve drinking-water problems in [[Vasai]] and [[Virar]] but administrative approval was delayed.{{Citation needed|date=August 2019}}

=== Resignation ===
Govinda's film-star status could explain his inaccessibility to his constituents, but not his absence from parliament. During his tenure as the Member of Parliament, Govinda was usually absent when the Lok Sabha was in session and he was severely criticized for inactivity.<ref>{{cite web |title=Govinda justifies his cash distribution during Holi |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/govinda-justifies-his-cash-distribution-during-holi/87795-37.html |work=IBN |access-date=27 September 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090403080858/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/govinda-justifies-his-cash-distribution-during-holi/87795-37.html |archive-date=3 April 2009}}</ref> At the same time, he continued his film career while he was serving as an MP. Indeed, his career witnessed a comeback of sorts in 2007, after the release of [[Partner (2007 film)|''Partner'']]. He was pilloried in the press for the combination of continuing to act in films while being generally absent from parliament, and inaccessible to his constituents. On 20 January 2008, Govinda decided to leave politics and concentrate on his [[Bollywood]] acting career.<ref>{{cite news |author=S Balakrishnan |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2008-01-20/india/27757336_1_actor-mp-govinda-union-minister-ram-naik-congress-activists |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811083639/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2008-01-20/india/27757336_1_actor-mp-govinda-union-minister-ram-naik-congress-activists |url-status=dead |archive-date=11 August 2011 |title=Govinda decides to quit politics |newspaper=[[The Times of India]] |date=20 January 2008 |access-date=6 July 2010}}</ref>

Later Govinda said that he wasted his time by joining politics and it badly affected his films.<ref>{{Cite web |title=I wasted my time getting involved in politics: Govinda |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-i-wasted-my-time-getting-involved-in-politics-govinda-1614996 |access-date=11 January 2022 |website=DNA India |language=en}}</ref>

== {{anchor|Controversies}}Controversy ==
In January 2008, Govinda slapped a struggling actor, Santosh Rai, on the set of ''[[Money Hai Toh Honey Hai]]'' at [[Filmistan Studio]] in Mumbai. On 5 February 2009, Rai filed a complaint against Govinda, accusing him of assault and crime, in the [[Borivali]] Magistrate Court. In 2013, the court ruled against Rai.<ref>[http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/hc-finds-no-material-of-criminal-intimidation-against-govinda/ HC finds no material of criminal intimidation against Govinda]. The Indian Express. Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.outlookindia.com/items.aspx?artid=816885 |title=HC Quashes Complaint Against Govinda in 2008 Slap Case |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113142615/http://news.outlookindia.com/items.aspx?artid=816885 |archive-date=13 November 2013 |df=dmy-all}}</ref> In 2014, Rai took his case to the [[Supreme Court of India|Supreme Court]], saying that he had come to Mumbai to become an actor, and felt very humiliated when he was slapped by Govinda. According to Rai, he had contested the case for six years and had spent ₹500,000–600,000 on [[Attorney's fee|attorney fees]]. Since the actor did not apologise, he was more determined to fight him in court.<ref>[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news-interviews/Govinda-issued-a-SC-notice-for-slapping-Santosh-Rai/articleshow/33445008.cms slapped: Govinda issued a SC notice for slapping Santosh Rai? | Hindi Movie News – Times of India]. Timesofindia.indiatimes.com (9 April 2014). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/will-govinda-sue-the-man-he-slapped-in-2008/ |title=Will Govinda sue the man he slapped in 2008 |work=Bollywood Life |date=8 April 2014}}</ref><ref>[http://post.jagran.com/actor-govinda-in-legal-soup-1396944016 Actor Govinda in legal soup – Entertainment]. Post.jagran.com (8 April 2014). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref> In December 2015, the Supreme Court asked Govinda to apologise to Rai for slapping him and settle the whole matter out of the court immediately in the span of two weeks. The actor said that he "respects" the court's decision, and will decide when he receives it in writing.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/SC-asks-Govinda-to-apologize-for-slapping-a-fan-in-2008/articleshow/49980548.cms |title=SC asks Govinda to apologize for slapping a fan in 2008 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref>[https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-34972466 Govinda: Bollywood actor told to apologise for slapping fan – BBC News]. Bbc.com (1 December 2015). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref>

Govinda has stated on multiple occasions that he was offered [[Sam Worthington]]'s role in the 2009 film [[Avatar (2009 film)|''Avatar'']] directed by [[James Cameron]]. Govinda also stated that he suggested the title of the film to Cameron and that he refused the role because he was unwilling to paint his body blue, despite the fact that Avatar relied on extensive CGI and not blue paint. His claims were met with widespread [[Troll (slang)|trolling]] on social media. Neither Cameron, nor any member of the Avatar franchise has confirmed this claim to be true. <ref>[https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/govinda-reacts-to-twitter-s-disbelief-over-avatar-claims-don-t-believe-if-you-don-t-want-it-s-not-like-meri-aukat-nahi-hai/story-CQzdmDApBSGKYqN15FqMQL.html Govinda reacts to disbelief over Avatar claims]. Hindustantimes.com (04 August 2019). </ref>

== Music career and collaborations ==
Govinda has worked with music directors [[Anand Milind]] and [[Anand Raj Anand]] and playback singer [[Udit Narayan]]. Narayan has sung more than 100 songs for Govinda in more than 50 films, the greatest number of films and songs he has sung for a particular actor. Other singers associated with Govinda include [[Kishore Kumar]], [[Amit Kumar (singer)|Amit Kumar]], [[Kumar Sanu]], [[Vinod Rathod]], [[Abhijeet Bhattacharya]], [[Devang Patel]] and [[Sonu Nigam]]. Also, his elder brother Kirti Kumar has sung 2 songs for him. In the film ''[[Farz Ki Jung]]'' (1989) there was a popular song "Phool Ka Shabab Kya, Husn Mahatab Kya..." which was sung by Late [[Mohammed Rafi]] picturized on Govinda.

His first album, ''Govinda'', was released in 1998.<ref>"[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news-interviews/Was-ghost-writer-in-many-of-my-super-hits-Govinda/articleshow/24186848.cms Was ghost writer in many of my super hits: Govinda]." ''[[The Times of India]]''. [[Press Trust of India]]. 15 October 2013. Retrieved on 22 June 2020.</ref> In November 2013 Govinda released his second album, ''Gori Tere Naina'', with actress [[Pooja Bose]]. Govinda also wrote lyrics. He is lyricist of "I Love You bol daal" song in [[Haseena Maan Jaayegi]](1999).

== Filmography ==
{{Main|Govinda filmography}}

== Awards and nominations ==
[[File:Lachhman Chatnani,Ram Jawhrani,Anthony Arun Biswas,Pahlaj Nihalani,Govinda,Chandru Punjabi From The Govinda graces Mother Teresa International Award (15).jpg|right|thumb|alt=Govinda with five other men onstage|Govinda (second from right) at the 2012 [[Mother Teresa Awards]]]] [[File:Govinda at special screening of Life Partner.jpg|thumb|right|alt=Govinda and three other people, standing on a red carpet|(l-r) [[Govinda]], [[Genelia D'Souza]], [[Tusshar Kapoor]], [[Prachi Desai]] at a special screening of ''[[Life Partner]]'']]
{{Further|List of awards and nominations received by Govinda}}

In 1999, Govinda was voted the world's tenth-greatest star of stage or screen in a BBC News Online poll.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/381017.stm |title=Bollywood star tops the poll |website=News.bbc.co.uk}}</ref> In July 2016, he was recognised as Actor of the Decade at the [[India Leadership Conclave]] in Mumbai.<ref>[http://www.mid-day.com/videos/govinda-and-daughter-narmada-awarded/796757 Govinda and daughter Narmada awarded – Entertainment]. Mid-day.com (2 July 2016). Retrieved on 14 September 2018.</ref>

Govinda has received 12 [[Filmfare Awards|Filmfare Award]] nominations and 4 [[Zee Cine Awards]]. He has also received a [[Filmfare Best Comedian Award|Filmfare Awards for Best Performance in a Comic Role]] for ''[[Haseena Maan Jaayegi|Haseena Maan Jayegi]]'' (1999) and a Filmfare Special Award for ''[[Saajan Chale Sasural]]'' (1996).

== Notes ==
{{Notelist}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==

* {{IMDb name}}
* {{BH person|govinda}}
* [https://www.instagram.com/govinda_herono1/ Govinda] at [[Instagram]]

{{FilmfareAwardBestComedian}}
{{ZeeCineAwardBestSupportingActorMale}}
{{Zee Cine Award for Best Actor in a Comic Role}}
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Govinda}}
[[Category:1963 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:Indian actor-politicians]]
[[Category:Indian male comedians]]
[[Category:Indian National Congress politicians]]
[[Category:Indian television presenters]]
[[Category:India MPs 2004–2009]]
[[Category:Lok Sabha members from Maharashtra]]
[[Category:Male actors from Mumbai]]
[[Category:Male actors in Hindi cinema]]
[[Category:Politicians from Mumbai]]
[[Category:Punjabi people]]
[[Category:Sindhi people]]
[[Category:Filmfare Awards winners]]
[[Category:Zee Cine Awards winners]]