Govinda now out of danger after successfully undergoing operation to remove bullet from leg

Bollywood veteran actor Govinda sustained an injury on Tuesday after his licensed revolver accidentally discharged at his residence in Juhu, Mumbai. According to police, the incident occurred when the 60-year-old actor was preparing to leave for the airport. Despite the unexpected turn of events, Govinda is reportedly out of danger and is recovering at a private hospital.

The accident happened early in the morning, around 4:45 AM, as Govinda was about to catch a flight to Kolkata for a scheduled performance. Shashi Sinha and the police explained that the trigger of the licensed revolver got pushed accidentally while the actor was keeping it in the cupboard, causing the bullet to hit his leg.

Govinda, beloved for his impeccable comic timing and dance moves in iconic films such as Hero No. 1 and Raja Babu, later issued a reassuring statement to his fans, saying, "With the blessings of my fans, my parents, and God, I am doing better now. I was hit by a bullet, which has now been removed. I thank the doctor here, Dr. Agarwal ji. I thank all of you for your prayers."

His brother, Kirti Kumar, further elaborated on the incident, calling it "strange" but acknowledging how fortunate Govinda was. “He was just checking the revolver when it accidentally slipped from his hand and fired. Thankfully, he reached the hospital on time. He's okay now. The operation was successful, and the doctors say he’s recovering well."

Kirti Kumar also mentioned that Govinda might stay in the hospital for two to three days depending on his condition, though there was a chance he could be discharged earlier if he felt better. In fact, earlier in the day, a police official had stated that Govinda had already been discharged and was recuperating at home.

Following the incident, Mumbai Police increased security outside Govinda's residence in Juhu. Crime branch officials also visited the actor in the hospital to gather more details. The revolver, which is licensed, has been seized for investigation. A team of police officers conducted a panchnama at his home, though no formal complaint has been lodged, and investigations are ongoing.

Govinda, whose full name is Govind Arun Ahuja, made his Bollywood debut in 1986 with the film Love 86. Over the years, he rose to stardom and became one of the most popular actors of the late 1980s and early 1990s, appearing in over 165 films. Some of his most famous works include Ilzaam, Gambler, Aankhen, Saajan Chale Sasural, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Bhagam Bhag, and Partner. His last on-screen appearance was in 2019’s Rangeela Raja.

In March this year, Govinda made headlines for his return to the political arena. A month before the Lok Sabha elections, he joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, marking his re-entry into politics after nearly two decades. The actor previously won the 2004 Mumbai North Lok Sabha seat as a Congress candidate but stepped away from political life in 2008.

Govinda’s fans and well-wishers have been expressing their relief at the news of his safety. His enduring popularity across generations ensures that this incident has sparked widespread concern, but thanks to prompt medical attention, the actor appears to be on the road to recovery.

(With inputs from PTI)