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Priyadarshan recalls asking Govinda not to do Bhagam Bhag: 'Don't do the film, if you can't come on time'

Updated on: 15 March,2026 09:16 AM IST  |  Mumbai
mid-day online correspondent |

Filmmaker Priyadarshan revealed he set a strict condition before casting Govinda in Bhagam Bhag due to the actor’s reputation for lateness. Govinda agreed to be punctual and surprised the team by arriving on time throughout the film’s entire shooting schedule.

Priyadarshan recalls asking Govinda not to do Bhagam Bhag: 'Don't do the film, if you can't come on time'

Priyadarshan and a still from Bhagam Bhag

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Priyadarshan recalls asking Govinda not to do Bhagam Bhag: 'Don't do the film, if you can't come on time'
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Filmmaker Priyadarshan recently recalled how he had one strict condition before casting actor Govinda in the 2006 comedy Bhagam Bhag. Known for his impeccable comic timing but also a reputation for arriving late to film sets, Govinda’s punctuality was a concern for the director when he considered him for the project.

Priyadarshan's condition for Govinda


In a recent interview, Priyadarshan shared that he was initially hesitant about offering the role to Govinda because of the actor’s long standing reputation for being late to shoots. The director said that the issue had caused difficulties for many producers and filmmakers in the past, and he did not want similar problems during the making of Bhagam Bhag.



Priyadarshan explained that before signing Govinda, he made his expectations absolutely clear. He warned the actor that discipline and punctuality would be essential if he wanted to be part of the film.

“I told him very clearly, ‘Don’t do the film if you can’t come on time,’” Priyadarshan recalled. “I said, ‘I cannot afford delays on my set.’”

The director said that Govinda immediately understood the seriousness of the condition and assured him that there would be no problems. According to Priyadarshan, the actor kept his promise throughout the shoot and proved that he could be completely professional when required.

Priyadarshan on Govinda's punctuality

Reflecting on the experience, Priyadarshan said Govinda surprised everyone with his commitment. “He came on time every single day,” the filmmaker said, adding that the actor maintained discipline during the entire schedule of the film.

The director even described the experience as one of his personal victories as a filmmaker. Seeing Govinda work with punctuality and dedication during Bhagam Bhag convinced Priyadarshan that clear communication and mutual respect can make a big difference on a film set.

Released in 2006, Bhagam Bhag featured a strong ensemble cast including Akshay Kumar, Govinda and Paresh Rawal. The comedy thriller became popular for its chaotic storyline, fast paced humour and memorable performances.

For Priyadarshan, the film also remains memorable for another reason, it showed that even actors with difficult reputations can rise to the occasion when given the right opportunity and expectations.

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