'Washed her feet and then drank that very water': Vinay Anand recalls Govinda’s most humble act of devotion towards his mother

Govinda’s nephew Vinay Anand shared a touching memory of the actor’s deep love and respect for his late mother. He recalled that on her birthday, Govinda washed her feet and drank the same water as a mark of devotion. Vinay said the moment showed the actor’s genuine respect for his mother and reflected the values that made him so admired during the height of his career.

Govinda’s heartfelt act for his late mother

Vinay shared that Govinda’s mother, Nirmala Devi, was the most important person in his life, and he showed his love and respect for her through a humble gesture on her birthday. He added that even though Govinda ruled the 1990s with his perfect comic timing and energetic dance moves, inspiring many to copy his style, he was just as committed to his family when he wasn’t in front of the camera.

Govinda inspired an entire generation, says Vinay Anand

On the Hindi Rush podcast, Govinda's nephew said, "I have been deeply inspired by Govinda throughout my life. And not just me—when he became number one, the entire country was inspired by him. There wasn't a single superstar who wasn't copying him or dancing like him. Even those who didn't know how to dance started dancing because of him. I saw him at home too. When it was my grandmother's birthday and he came over, he washed her feet in a ceremonial plate and then drank that very water."

Vinay also mentioned that over the years, he had approached Govinda with several film and event offers, but the actor turned them down, choosing not to accept many of the opportunities that came his way. “I often get troubled myself. I've taken many film offers to him; he didn't do them. I've taken many event offers; he doesn't accept them. He has his reasons. There is a 14-year age gap between us, and he has always been like a father figure to me. Although he is my maternal uncle, I have never questioned him out of respect or asked 'why?'" he said.

Govinda’s family bond remains strong, says Vinay Anand

Anand shared that even with a 14-year age difference, Govinda has always been like a father figure to him, and he has always treated his uncle with great respect, never questioning his decisions. He mentioned that despite having acted in nearly 70 films himself, his admiration for Govinda remains the same. Vinay also opened up about personal matters, saying he was once unsure about asking Govinda regarding rumours about his personal life. When he finally did, Govinda denied the affair talks, and Vinay believed him. However, he admitted that watching interviews of Govinda’s wife, Sunita Ahuja, sometimes made him a bit uncomfortable because of the close family bond they share.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”