Govinda's daughter to be launched as a leading lady this year

By Subhash K. Jha, Bollywood Hungama News Network

2008 has been a decisive year for Govinda. After working with Mani Ratnam he has decided to work only with directors of a certain caliber.

And now in 2009 Govinda has far more to look forward to. His daughter Narmada will finally be facing the camera and that too with a home production.

Confirming these radical developments in his life Govinda says, "After weighing all the pros and cons I decided I'm the best person to do the needful. I don't want anyone else no matter how well-meaning to take the credit for launching my daughter. So yes, Narmada will finally be launched anytime in 2009."

The director to do the needful for Govinda will be finalized in the next couple of weeks. Those on Govinda's wish-list are Nikhil Advani and Shaad Ali.

"Ideally," says the anxious father, "I'd have liked Narmada to be launched by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. He's among our best. But since that's not possible we're looking at some other names. My daughter has to be directed by someone who has a vision and an aesthetic sense and also respects the work that I do."

Continuing to speak on his favourite subject Govinda says, "I've struggled all my life and I continue to do so. All kinds of strange stories are planted about me. The question is not, why. But by whom? Narmada has also faced very harsh and hurtful incidents (she was involved in a terrible road accident) so early in her life. I feel today she's emotionally equipped to face the camera."

While focusing on his daughter's career Govinda has also taken some hard career decisions for himself. "Six of my releases are ready. But now, after my so-called comeback I've again stopped signing new films. After working with Mani Ratnam I can't go back to doing chalta hai roles in routine films. I'll work only with directors who are as organized and disciplined as Mani Ratnam. He's clear-headed about everything."

Shooting in the jungles wasn't easy. "But it wasn't so tough either," laughs Govinda. "I've spent my childhood in a village. So I'm used to being in cut off from city life. Shooting in the jungles with Mani, Abhishek and Aishwarya was very invigorating."

Says Govinda, "For now I'm saying no to all future assignments until I get something comparable with Mani's film. But I'm in negotiation with Ravi Chopra for his next film after Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai which is now complete and being released in February, and for the sequel to Partner with Salman and David. But for now, I'm focusing on giving my daughter the best career launch any father can give."

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