The infamous slapping incident: During the making of Money Hai Toh Money Hai (2008), Govinda grabbed headlines for slapping a fan named Santosh Rai on the sets of the film. The incident led to a decade-long legal battle, which finally ended in 2017 when Govinda agreed to the Supreme Court's decision and settled the matter by apologising to the fan and providing him financial compensation. 

Rift with David Dhawan: Govinda and David Dhawan were one of the most beloved actor-director duos of their era, with 17 successful collaborations together. According to reports, the two had developed a strained relationship around 2009, after Govinda allegedly felt sidelined when David began signing other actors in projects that he had recommended, leaving the actor allegedly neglected. 

Tensions with nephew Krushna Abhishek: A long-standing family feud with nephew Krushna Abhishek and his wife, Kashmera Shah, began grabbing headlines around 2016 following a series of online posts and public comments. The fallout lasted for years before Govinda and Krushna's reunion happened in late 2024 on The Great Indian Kapil Show.

Claims about being offered a lead role in Avatar (2010): Govinda became a topic of debate when he claimed that he was approached for the lead role in James Cameron’s Avatar. However, he said he refused the part because he was not in favour of his body being coloured.

Accidental shooting incident: In 2024, Govinda left fans in shock after he announced that he accidentally shot himself in the leg while cleaning his licensed revolver. The actor was admitted to the hospital and underwent surgery. 

Lack of discipline and professional criticism: Govinda has often faced backlash for his tardiness on sets, with filmmakers and co-stars addressing it over the decades. On Kajol and Twinkle Khanna’s show, the superstar said that he was defamed in Bollywood for arriving late to work, but in fact, he was doing several shifts daily.

Marital rift: Govinda and his wife Sunita Ahuja made headlines after Sunita filed for divorce in December 2024, citing adultery and cruelty. However, in August 2026, Sunita withdrew the petition that she had filed at Mumbai's Bandra Family Court. The matter escalated after Sunita publicly called out Govinda's alleged relationship with his co-star Komal Rani Swarnkar, which he publicly denied

Friction with Salman Khan: According to media reports, Govinda developed an uneasy bond with Salman Khan after Partner (2007). The actor allegedly felt that Salman did not help his daughter, Tina Ahuja, in making her debut and instead supported other newcomers, including Sonakshi Sinha.