Govinda is a changed man. Gone are the days when the actor, who's new film Partner with Salman Khan is all set for release, kept away from the media.
Now, the reclusive actor opens up about everything from his weight loss, his kids to his forthcoming films, in this frank interview with Trans World Features correspondent Vickey Lalwani.
Tell us about Partner.
I am very happy with this full-fledged comedy. Director David Dhawan has done a great job. I did not expect that I would get such a great role. Looking at the length of my role, you will not feel that it is Salman's home production.
Unlike the raw deal in Bhagam Bhag. It was said that Akshay Kumar had your role chopped...
I don't think so. Frankly, I am not looking at such things now. I am back and I want to make the most of it with a positive frame of mind.
The success of Bhagam Bhag was very important. That started it all.
In Salaam-e-Ishq, Nikhil Advani (director) gave me a lot of free hand though he did not allow me to go over the top. That helped.
Your friendship with Salman Khan is the talk of the town.
I think we respect each other a lot, even before. It was just waiting to show.
Are you in touch with him regularly?
Yes. He is a buddy and family to me now.
We heard you are planning on a new look by going for a hair transplant?
Yes.
I am planning to get it done in September. I have worked out my dates and kept myself free from shooting. Salman's doctor is going to come to Dubai where the surgery will be conducted.
But you are not balding.
Yes, I am not balding. But when I work in airy conditions on outdoor locales, my hair spreads out and I have a problem. Plus, I intend to keep long hair (smiles).
You are looking fitter and younger...
I weighed 107 kilos when Sukh was released. I had become like a South Indian comedian. Bahut gaaliyan padi, ghar se bhi aur bahar se bhi. So I built a gym at home. I got all the hi-tech machines and would exercise for two hours every day, followed by yoga for 30 minutes. I am on the treadmill for half hour. I also skip a lot.
I am keeping a check on my diet too. I have managed to lose 22 kilos and now I weigh 85 kilos. I want to reduce to 75 kilos and I will do it.
Were you 75 kilos at any stage in your life?
Yes, when I acted in Ilzaam.
Which are the other films you are doing?
Apart from Dhawan's film, I am doing a Ravi Chopra one.
You are also doing a film with Sohail Khan where you being paid Rs 1.5 crores
Frankly, I don't discuss money with Sohail. Recently, he gifted a Mercedes to my wife (Sunita). Bahut pyaara aadmi hai. We keep talking about how to increase my price. As for the Rs 1.5 crores, I am getting that for Dhawan's next film. I am beginning to get my price now (smiles).
Your daughter Narmada has grown up now. What are her plans?
She wants become a heroine. For some time, she will assist Rakesh Roshan. She wants to start from the grassroot level, by learning the intricacies of filmmaking.
And what about your son Yash?
(Smiles) He will become an actor. Kahaan jayega? Main banaunga usko hero.
