Amrish Puri’s Son Sets the Record Straight: Debunking the Infamous Govinda Slap Allegation
For decades, one of Bollywood’s most persistent urban legends has been the alleged on-set confrontation between late acting legend Amrish Puri and star Govinda. The story, which has circulated through film circles and media outlets for years, claims that a frustrated Puri slapped Govinda after the latter arrived a staggering nine hours late for a shoot.
However, the late actor’s son, Rajeev Puri, has finally stepped forward to put the rumors to rest, categorically denying that the incident ever occurred.
“He Was Never the Type to Lose His Temper”
In a recent appearance on Vickey Lalwani’s podcast, Rajeev Puri addressed the long-standing gossip. The widely reported narrative suggested that Amrish Puri, known for his punctuality and professionalism, arrived on set at 9:00 AM, only for Govinda to stroll in at 6:00 PM. According to the legend, the resulting tension culminated in a physical altercation.
Rajeev dismissed the account entirely, emphasizing that such behavior was fundamentally contrary to his father’s personality. “I don’t think that is true,” Rajeev stated. “He was never the type to lose his temper. He never lost his temper like that.”
He further clarified his father’s temperament, noting that while Amrish Puri held high standards for his work, he was not prone to outbursts. “He would raise his voice only after somebody irritated him twice or thrice, but otherwise, I don’t think he would have ever slapped anyone,” he added.
A Professional Rift, Not a Personal Feud
While Rajeev dismissed the physical confrontation, he did acknowledge that the two actors’ differing approaches to work might have led to a natural professional distance. Govinda was often associated with stories regarding his time management, and Rajeev suggested that this may have influenced their decision to stop collaborating.
“Because of that, perhaps Govinda did not work with Daddy in the future. Maybe he understood that coming late would not work with him,” Rajeev explained. However, he was quick to clarify that his father did not harbor long-term ill will. “I don’t think Daddy held any grudges over such things.”
The two stars appeared together in the 1989 film Do Qaidi, which is widely cited as their final project together.
Legacy of a Legend
The attempt to set the record straight is a testament to the enduring stature of Amrish Puri, one of the most respected figures in the history of Indian cinema. Known for his iconic performances in classics like Mr. India, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and Virasat, Puri commanded immense respect from his peers and fans alike until his passing in 2005 at the age of 72.
By clearing the air, Rajeev Puri has helped protect the legacy of his father, ensuring that the veteran actor is remembered for his legendary screen presence and professional integrity rather than fabricated tales of on-set volatility.
