Bollywood has never been short of dramatic stories—both on and off the screen. One such story that continues to intrigue film lovers is the alleged clash between veteran superstar Dharmendra and comedy king Govinda during the making of the 1990 cult classic Awaargi.

Directed by Mahesh Bhatt and produced by Hema Malini, the intense musical drama starred Anil Kapoor, Meenakshi Seshadri, and Govinda in pivotal roles. But behind the camera, rumours of tension and ego clashes allegedly led to a heated altercation—one that reportedly ended with Dharmendra slapping Govinda.

Why did Dharmendra allegedly slap Govinda?

According to old industry reports, Awaargi originally revolved around Govinda and Meenakshi Seshadri as the main leads. However, mid-production, Mahesh Bhatt decided to cast Anil Kapoor, shifting the film’s focus and changing the narrative.

This creative change reportedly didn’t go down well with Govinda, who felt that his screen space and importance were being reduced. Upset by the development, he allegedly decided to walk out of the project—throwing the film’s production schedule into disarray.

When producer Hema Malini learned about Govinda’s decision, she reportedly asked her husband, Dharmendra, to step in and mediate. Known for his calm and fatherly demeanour, Dharmendra tried to convince Govinda to reconsider. However, according to some accounts, their private discussion became heated, and Dharmendra allegedly slapped Govinda out of frustration.

While some sources claim the incident took place on the film set, Dharmendra has denied these reports in later interviews.

Awaargi was completed with Anil Kapoor, Meenakshi Seshadri, and Govinda sharing the screen, and it went on to earn critical acclaim for its music and performances.

Dharmendra and Govinda’s health update:

Both Dharmendra and Govinda have recently been in the news for health-related reasons. On November 10, 2025, the legendary Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital after complaining of breathlessness. Soon after, false rumours about his death went viral on social media, prompting his daughter Esha Deol to release a statement clarifying that her father was recovering well.

In a heartwarming gesture, Govinda visited Dharmendra at the hospital the same evening. Ironically, just a day later, Govinda himself was hospitalised in Mumbai after fainting at home due to sudden weakness and disorientation.

Both actors are now said to be on the path to recovery