Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Mumbai, May 24: Veteran Bollywood star Govinda recently opened up about the intense pressure he faced at the height of his career in the 1990s, revealing that his hectic work schedule seriously affected his health and even landed him in hospital.

Speaking during an appearance on “The Kapil Sharma Show,” the actor shared that legendary actor Dilip Kumar played a crucial role in helping him recover and rethink his lifestyle.

Recalling the difficult phase, Govinda said, “I survived because of Mr. Dilip.”

When asked to elaborate, the actor revealed that he had been working continuously for nearly 15 days without rest when he was hospitalised.

According to Govinda, Dilip Kumar personally called him after learning about his condition and expressed concern over his deteriorating health. After hearing about the actor’s nonstop shooting schedule, the cinema legend reportedly warned him that continuing at that pace could destroy his life.

Govinda shared that Dilip Kumar advised him to step away from around 25 film projects to prioritise his health. Initially reluctant because he had already accepted advance payments for the films, Govinda said he explained his financial concerns to the veteran actor.

In response, Dilip Kumar suggested someone who could help arrange a loan, allowing Govinda to return the money and exit the projects.

“So, I left 25 films. I am alive because of that,” Govinda recalled.

Govinda made his acting debut in 1986 with the film Love 86 and went on to become one of Bollywood’s most popular entertainers through the 1990s. He delivered several major hits including Raja Babu, Coolie No. 1, Saajan Chale Sasural, Hero No. 1, Deewana Mastana, Dulhe Raja, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Haseena Maan Jayegi.

The actor was last seen on the big screen in the 2019 film Rangeela Raja, which also featured Shakti Kapoor.