Shakti Kapoor reflects on what insecurity can do to an actor and shares how Govinda became punctual because of it.
Govinda was one of the biggest superstars in the '80s and '90s and is still one of the most respected actors. The actor back in the day used to shoot during different shifts for several films on the same day. He would work on numerous projects at the same time and would often make his producers wait for his arrival.
Despite Govinda's tardiness, his tantrums were always looked after because of his stardom in the era. He was a complete artist with impeccable acting skills, comic timing, wit and dance skills. This made him well-loved and respected among his contemporaries. Reflecting on the same, his friend, Shakti Kapoor, had some stories to share.
Speaking to Bollywood Bubble almost five years ago, Shakti Kapoor was asked how Govinda had changed over the years. Shakti quickly responded that he used to be almost 12 hours late for his shifts. However, that changed with time, and the actor would arrive half an hour early instead. He also commented on insecurity being the reason for Govinda's punctuality. He also rooted for his friend's comeback and shared that it's never too late for an actor. He was quoted saying:
"The one thing that has changed about him over the years is his punctuality. Earlier, he would arrive at 9 pm for a 9 am shift. Now, he arrives at 8:30 am for a 9 a.m. shift. Insecurity aadmi ko kaha se kaha pahucha deti hai. Now, he is very professional, and the entire industry knows it. People say now its too late for the actor to make a comeback, I don’t believe it. We have seen people like Amrish Puri starting at 44. It's never too late for an actor or artiste."
In early 2024, ad guru, Prahlad Kakkar, sat for an interview with Cyrus Broacha to celebrate the launch of his autobiography. During the conversation, he recalled anecdotes about numerous celebrities, including Govinda. Recalling his shoot with Govinda, he recalled how Govinda was 24 hours late for the shoot. However, his colleague corrected him and stated that the actor was, in fact, 48 hours late. Prahlad was quoted saying:
"We were on a big set in Hyderabad, of all the places. And he was supposed to come from Srinagar. He said, 'Don’t worry, main time pe aa jaunga'. I said, 'Kaise ayega tu? Tera flight nahi hai'. He said, 'Gaadi mein baith ke aunga na'. From Srinagar to Hyderabad in eight hours, according to him. But anyway, he turned up two days late. But he turned up."
In 2023, Raveena Tandon, sat for an interview with ETimes and shared about the actor's tardiness. Raveena was paired frequently with the actor and knew about his habit of being late. She told the publication, 'I would reach the set at 9, knowing that he (Govinda) would come at 2.30-3.'
What are your thoughts on Shakti Kapoor's revelation about Govinda?
Next Read: Nayanthara Gets A Legal Notice From The Makers Of 'Chandramukhi' For Her Netflix Documentary