Salman Khan Was Hesitant To Do 'Partner' With Govinda Shares David Dhawan: 'Yaar, Isse Ladna...'

David Dhawan revealed that Salman Khan wasn't initially enthusiastic about joining the cast of 'Partner' and that Anil Kapoor once felt a bit insecure about the close bond he shared with Govinda.

New Delhi: Director David Dhawan and actor Govinda had a highly successful partnership in the 1990s, delivering nearly 17 hit films together. In a recent interview, David fondly recalled those days, joking that he was the only one who could "handle" Govinda. When asked about Govinda’s well-known habit of being late, David brushed it off, saying that the work always got done in the end. He also revealed that Salman Khan wasn't initially enthusiastic about joining the cast of 'Partner' and mentioned that Anil Kapoor once felt a bit insecure about the close bond David shared with Govinda.

David Dhawan talks about his bond with Govinda

Speaking with Bollywood Bubble, David Dhawan described Govinda as the "king of improvisation," attributing much of their success to this skill. They even had a unique code for when a scene wasn't working. David would say, "rubber hai scene, prolonged, khincha hua hai" (meaning the scene was stretched or dragging), and Govinda would respond, "David, main pura scene ek shot mein deta hun" (meaning he could deliver the entire scene in one take).

Salman Khan was reluctant to work with Govinda

David Dhawan also shared his experience working with Salman and Govinda on 'Partner'. He recounted how, after suggesting the idea to producer Sohail Khan, they approached Salman, who was initially hesitant. David convinced him by saying, "come yaar, let's do it, it will be a big thing." During the shoot in Bangkok, Salman remarked to David, "David yaar, isse ladna… fayda nahi hai" (implying it was pointless to argue with Govinda).

 

When Govinda said he gave 'Judwaa' to Salman

Interestingly, Govinda had once shared that Salman Khan called him and asked him to leave David Dhawan’s 'Judwaa' and give it to him instead. Govinda agreed, and Salman went on to play a double role in the film, which became a significant milestone in his early career.

Govinda recounted to Bollywood Hungama, “At that time, I was working on 'Judwaa' when Salman (Khan) called me around 2-3 a.m. and asked, ‘Chichi Bhahiya, how many hits will you give?’ I asked, ‘What happened?’ He replied, ‘The movie you are doing, 'Judwaa', stop it and give it to me. You will also have to give me the director. I've even convinced the producer (Sajid Nadiadwala).’ So, the film was halted and handed over to Salman.”

Despite this, there were no conflicts between the actors.