Paresh Rawal Confirms Govinda’s Exit From ‘Bhagam Bhag 2’, Calls Akshay Kumar And Manoj Bajpayee’s Pairing “Unique”
Paresh Rawal confirmed Govinda’s exit from ‘Bhagam Bhag 2’ as Manoj Bajpayee joined the sequel.
Reports recently suggested that Govinda has been replaced by Manoj Bajpayee in the sequel to ‘Bhagam Bhag’, leaving many fans disappointed. The speculation has now been confirmed by Paresh Rawal, who not only addressed Govinda’s exit but also revealed that he will be playing a double role in the upcoming film. In a conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Paresh Rawal confirmed that Manoj Bajpayee has officially joined ‘Bhagam Bhag 2’ as one of the leads.
The original ‘Bhagam Bhag’ (2006) featured the iconic pairing of Govinda and Akshay Kumar, whose comic timing and chemistry became one of the film’s biggest highlights.
Speaking about the new dynamic between Manoj and Akshay in the sequel, Paresh Rawal remarked that it would make for a “different and unique combination”.
When asked about Govinda’s absence, Paresh admitted he was unaware of the reasons behind the decision. “I have genuinely no idea. However, we’ll miss Govinda,” he said, acknowledging the void the actor’s absence may create for long-time fans. Paresh also shared that he will be seen in a double role in the sequel, adding that he is excited about the opportunity.
Released in 2006 and directed by Priyadarshan, ‘Bhagam Bhag’ is widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s popular slapstick comedies. The film followed a chaotic theatre troupe that accidentally gets entangled in a web of crimes while travelling abroad. Packed with mistaken identities, comic misunderstandings and witty one-liners, the film gradually earned cult status among audiences.
However, the news of Govinda not being part of the sequel has not gone down well with fans. Social media has been flooded with reactions, with many urging the makers to reconsider the decision and not move forward without the veteran actor.
Govinda, once among the biggest stars of the 1990s, saw a decline in his career in the late 2000s. Despite attempting several comebacks, he struggled to find footing in an industry increasingly dominated by a new generation of actors. His last big-screen appearance was in ‘Rangeela Raja’ (2019), where he played a double role, but the film failed at the box office.
Recently, Govinda’s wife, Sunita Ahuja, spoke candidly about his stalled comeback. She suggested that the actor is surrounded by “yes men” who do not offer honest feedback. Sunita also revealed that she has encouraged him to lose weight and experiment with diverse scripts instead of seeking solo-hero projects.
In recent months, Govinda has also been in the headlines for personal reasons, with Sunita hinting at alleged affairs. Meanwhile, his son is reportedly preparing for his Bollywood debut.
