When the late Pahlaj Nihalani claimed Govinda was 'stabbed in the back' after Salman Khan's 'Partner': 'People throw parties'

Veteran film producer and former CBFC chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani passed away at the age of 76 at his Mumbai residence following a prolonged illness. His demise marked the end of a long journey in Hindi cinema, where he remained associated with several successful projects across decades. Over the years, Pahlaj worked with many leading actors and filmmakers. He was also known for expressing his opinions openly during interviews and discussions related to the industry. Earlier in 2025, the producer had shared his views on Govinda's career and reflected on what he believed affected the actor's journey in Bollywood.Govinda ruled the box office during the 1990s and became one of the most popular stars of his generation. His films, comedy timing and dance performances helped him build a strong connection with audiences. Although the actor later returned with Salman Khan's 'Partner', his professional journey did not continue in the way many expected. During an earlier conversation with Pinkvilla, Pahlaj discussed the changes he observed in Govinda's career.According to him, several events worked against the actor after that phase. He said, “After Partner, everything went against him. He didn’t get any films after that. Many of his big films got shut down, including one with Priyanka Chopra. If someone stabs you in the back, there’s not even a single mark left behind. You don’t even get to know. So, he has been stabbed in the back many times,”During the discussion, Pahlaj also addressed rumours regarding Govinda's working style and punctuality on sets. The producer stated that he had personally worked with Govinda and never experienced the issues often spoken about in industry circles. He maintained that the actor remained professional throughout their collaborations. He said, “It was the truth. Even after Rangeela Raja, many big producers asked me if Govinda ever annoyed me, but I denied. He used to come and go back on time. It’s a rumour that he comes late. He has shot for me 6 am in the morning. He was never late than the assigned time,”Pahlaj also spoke about professional relationships in the film industry and suggested that success often changes dynamics among people. He expressed his views on friendships and the nature of industry bonds. He added, “There are no friends in Bollywood. Time par dost hai, time ke baad nahi hai (it’s a selfish friendship). Koi kisi ka apna nahi hai. If someone’s film flops, people throw parties,” The conversation later moved towards comments made by Govinda's wife Sunita regarding people around the actor affecting his growth. Responding to that, Pahlaj said, “She is not wrong, she is right. These pundits destroyed his career,” Pahlaj was also asked whether he had ever guided Govinda during different stages of his life and career.Explaining his views, he said he never believed in imposing advice on others and shared his perspective on truth and relationships. He replied, “It is wrong to advice anyone. Giving advice to someone means keeping your own self below them. Sachai bolna aur sachai sunna, bahut bada farak hai (Saying and listening to the truth is difficult). I will never say anything wrong about Govinda as an actor and as a person. His thought process is at fault sometimes,”Meanwhile, Pahlaj Nihalani leaves behind a long legacy in cinema and will be remembered forever.