Mumbai: Govinda, who made a comeback this year with Kill Dil and Happy Ending, is happy with life.
“I am in no hurry. God has been very kind to me. What I want now is different from what I wanted when I was 26. Now I am not insecure about my career. I’ve taken control of my physique. I feel better about myself than I ever did. Reiki has opened up my body and mind. I am ready to explore new challenges.”
He adds that he is today a content man. “Bahot diya dene wale ne mujhko. I’ve got more than I deserve. I don’t want to lose this second opportunity that God has given me. I want to take my work further. Being professional is very important. There’s no alternative to hard work… I think I’ve just begun my career now. I feel I’m in Class I in school. I’m feeling nervous and excited. But also tired. I’m learning, understanding and I’m trying to manage in my own way.
“I’d consider 2006 my year of recovery. At least I found a place back in the industry. Today I can’t be taken for granted by people who want to make films with me. For too long I’ve been taken for granted. Today I insist on working only with big banners who will ensure that a film gets released properly and on time.
Govinda laughs back at his reputation of chronic unpunctuality. “I admit I never considered punctuality a part of my work ethics. All these years I’ve been accused of being unpunctual, and I was. I’ve made punctuality a part of my career now.”
Raveena Tandon:
“There cannot be another Govinda. I had the pleasure of doing six films with him. What a fantastic journey it has been for Govinda, and still a long way to go. He is one of the simplest and sweetest co-stars I’ve worked with, absolutely hassle-free, not threatened by the presence of any co-star, no matter how formidable. And what a humongous talent! He is a rare combination of an actor and dancer. He is in a unique slot where his name is carved in the history of cinema. Doing scenes and songs with him was a learning experience for me.
“We did a lot of very popular songs and dances. But Ankhiyon se goli marey and Kisi disco mein jaaye were the most popular. You won’t believe this, but both songs were shot and finished in one day. But that’s Govinda’s lightening speed… and I’d also be inspired to match his steps.”
Neelam Kothari:
We started our careers together with Ilzaam and we went on to do several films together. Govinda is one of the kindest co-stars I’ve worked with, also one of the most versatile. Dancing with him was really easy. We hardly had to rehearse our steps. I wish him good health and happiness.”
