Before two Bollywood actors Salman Khan and Govinda became a much-loved comedy pair in Partner, Govinda says he noticed that Salman was going through a difficult period in his personal life. The veteran actor has now opened up about the conversation they had before starting work on the 2007 film and the advice he gave Salman at the time.
Speaking in an interview, Govinda recalled that Salman Khan was dealing with a lot of emotional pain and had become quite withdrawn. According to Govinda, Salman was struggling with his own thoughts, including issues related to love, hopes and expectations. He felt that Salman needed to move beyond his troubles and focus on himself.
Govinda said he decided to spend some time with Salman Khan and introduce him to Satya. The two sat together and had a drink, during which Govinda encouraged Salman to stop looking only at his problems and instead turn his attention inward.
Govinda also remembered that he himself weighed around 114 kilos at the time and had just returned from politics. He jokingly told Salman Khan that by the time he lost weight, he might already have moved into character roles, while continuing to do the kind of comedy roles he had done in Partner.
However, Govinda was more concerned about Salman. He felt that although Salman was supposed to be the hero, he did not look like hero as he didn’t have the appearance or confidence associated with a leading man. Govinda recalled telling him that he looked unhappy and sad and needed to come out of that phase.
Salman Khan then asked Govinda what he should do and Govinda’s answer was simple – exercise regularly, for around two to three hours a day.
While giving advice to Salman, Govinda also compared his star quality with that of legendary actor Dharmendra. He told Salman that he had several qualities that could make him a major screen hero, including his looks, personality, family support and natural presence.
Govinda believed Salman Khan had the ability to develop the kind of powerful aura that makes audiences immediately recognize someone as a hero. He encouraged him to work on himself physically and mentally and regain that confidence.
According to Govinda, Salman took his advice seriously. He later enjoyed a highly successful run in Bollywood. Govinda also recalled predicting that Salman would rule the Hindi film industry for around 10 years and he believes that prediction eventually came true.
Salman Khan and Govinda shared the screen in the 2007 comedy Partner and their chemistry was widely appreciated by audiences. The film was directed by David Dhawan, who has worked with Govinda on several successful projects.
Partner also featured Lara Dutta and Katrina Kaif in important roles and became known for its comedy and the entertaining pairing of Salman Khan and Govinda.
