Govinda's wife Sunita Ahuja speaks out on his rejection of Devdas role: "He was a top star"
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It is noteworthy that Govinda was initially selected by Sanjay Leela Bhansali to portray the character of Chunnilal, the eternally intoxicated companion of Devdas, in the acclaimed period romance released in 2002. In a recent interview with Hindi Rush, Sunita Ahuja, Govinda's wife, provided insights into the reasons behind her husband's decision to decline this role.
What Sunita said
Why would he choose to portray Chunnilal? He was a prominent star. It is perplexing that he would take on a secondary role. Ultimately, it is his decision. The role of Chunnilal cannot simply be offered to Govinda; he declined it, and that was his prerogative. I am pleased that he made that choice. Why would a leading star accept such a part? He was a major figure in the industry during the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. It seems illogical to propose such a role to him. He managed the situation admirably; I doubt I would have been as gracious, Sunita remarked.
Jackie Shroff ultimately secured the role. Devdas is an adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's renowned 1917 novel of the same name. In Bhansali's version, Shah Rukh Khan took on the titular character, while Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit portrayed his love interests, Paro and Chandramukhi, respectively. The film also featured Kirron Kher, Dina Pathak, and Tiku Talsania. It premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and was one of the most expensive films of its time, with a budget of ₹50 crore, ultimately grossing ₹168 crore at the global box office.
Sunita on why Govinda isn't getting films anymore
Sunita expressed her views on the decline in her husband's film opportunities compared to the past. "He is an individual, a village boy, and he refuses to align himself with any of those groups. He prefers to create his own circle and interact with them. He will not submit to anyone; he exists in his own realm, considering himself hero number one," she stated.
Govinda is set to appear in three upcoming comedies: Baaye Haath Ka Khel, Pinky Darling, and Len Den: It's All About Business, which he announced during his recent appearance on The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix India.
