Exploring David Dhawan's classics of the 90s that still entertain audiences across generations

Released in 1993, Aankhen was a game-changer for David Dhawan. Starring Govinda and Chunky Pandey, it combined slapstick comedy with thrilling twists. Its success made it one of the highest-grossing films of the year. Songs like “O Lal Dupatte Wali” became chartbusters, and its humour still entertains audiences three decades later.

Released in 1995, this Govinda–Karisma laugh riot made double roles unforgettable. The film thrived on slapstick humour, colourful sets and playful songs like “Main To Raste Se Ja Raha Tha.” Dhawan’s masterstroke was balancing comedy with romance, making it a defining entertainer of the decade and beyond.

In 1997, Deewana Mastana gave us Govinda and Anil Kapoor in a love triangle of epic comedy. Juhi Chawla’s charm balanced the chaos. The banter between the leads, powered by Dhawan’s comic timing, made it unforgettable. Even today, its humorous sequences remain a reference point for Bollywood rom-coms.

Paired with Govinda and Raveena Tandon in 1998, Dhawan’s Dulhe Raja centred on the hilarious clash between a street-smart man and a wealthy hotelier. With unforgettable comedy, vibrant music and Johnny Lever’s iconic moments, it became one of Dhawan’s most popular laugh riots, cementing his position as Bollywood’s comedy king.

This 1999 caper starring Sanjay Dutt, Govinda and Karisma Kapoor was packed with Dhawan’s signature comedy of errors. Full of disguises, confusion and catchy songs, it delivered relentless laughter. Govinda’s comic genius stole the show, and Dhawan once again proved his ability to turn chaos into cinematic gold.

In 1997, Dhawan gave us a charming blend of love and comedy with Hero No. 1. Govinda’s comic flair and Karisma Kapoor’s presence made it sparkle. The story of winning over family hearts resonated with audiences, while melodies like “Sona Kitna Sona Hai” ensured its place in Bollywood nostalgia.

This 1997 Salman Khan double role entertainer captured the nation with its humour, action and songs. Dhawan’s direction turned “Tan Tana Tan Tan Tan Tara” into a generational anthem. The twin confusion narrative set a benchmark for masala films and inspired Judwaa 2, proving the story’s timeless mass appeal.

In 1994, Raja Babu showcased Govinda in a rustic yet hilarious avatar. Karisma Kapoor’s chemistry added sparkle, while Dhawan’s take on village versus city culture created enduring comedy. With catchy songs, outlandish costumes and iconic dialogues, the film proved how Govinda and Dhawan together could effortlessly define 90s Bollywood humour.

This 1996 Govinda starrer turned mistaken identities into laugh-out-loud chaos. Paired with Karisma Kapoor and Tabu, Govinda played a musician caught between two wives. The film’s farcical humour and catchy tunes like “Tum To Dhokebaaz Ho” kept theatres buzzing. Dhawan’s mastery of situational comedy made this film an enduring gem.

A 1999 blockbuster with Salman Khan, Karisma Kapoor and Sushmita Sen, this film turned marital drama into comedy gold. Dhawan treated infidelity with humour without trivialising emotions. The glamorous cast, memorable soundtrack, and Rib-tickling confusion made it an instant hit, still fondly remembered for combining glamour, emotion and laughter.