Laughter, cots, and courtroom jokes: The hilarious mahurat of Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda’s Bade Miyan Chote Miyan

December 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM IST

On 22^nd December 1997, Bollywood witnessed one of its most entertaining mahurat ceremonies at Hotel Centaur, marking the beginning of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. The film, directed by David Dhawan and starring Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda, was already creating buzz as one of the most exciting announcements of the time. The mahurat shot, however, added an extra dose of laughter and energy, setting the tone for what promised to be a blockbuster entertainer.

Laughter, cots, and courtroom jokes: The hilarious mahurat of Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda’s Bade Miyan Chote Miyan

The two miyans, Amitabh and Govinda, faced the camera for a hilarious scene that had everyone in splits. The scene revolved around a lighthearted discussion between the two about their future plans. Amitabh shared his intention to become a neta (politician), to which Govinda humorously cautioned him against the pitfalls of politics, citing scams, court battles, and eventual imprisonment. Taking Govinda’s advice, Amitabh decided instead to become an abhineta (actor). What followed was a comedic tug-of-war, with both vying for the role of the actor and insisting the other become their secretary.

When it was finally agreed that Amitabh would become the bade miyan abhineta, Govinda inquired what he would do next. Amitabh declared he would earn plenty of money and then sleep peacefully. Govinda, with his impeccable comic timing, quipped, “But that’s what we’re already doing - sleeping. So why bother doing anything else?” The scene concluded with both actors hilariously deciding to return to their khatiya (cot) to resume their slumber, leaving the audience in splits.

The mahurat was met with thunderous applause and roaring laughter, with the scene’s witty references to scams, legal troubles, and even a cheeky nod to the recent income-tax raid on David Dhawan adding a layer of topical humor.

The film, produced by Sheetal Jain in association with Vashu Bhagnani, boasted an impressive team, including writer Rumi Jafri, music composer Viju Shah, lyricist Sameer, cinematographer K.S. Prakash Rao, and choreographer B.H. Tharun Kumar. The art direction by R. Verman and editing by A. Muthu further rounded out the talented crew. With such a formidable cast and crew, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan was poised to be a memorable cinematic experience.

Looking back, this day not only marked the start of a beloved film but also reminded us of the unparalleled charm and humor of Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda, who brought the house down with their comic chemistry.

Also Read: 25 Years of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan EXCLUSIVE: “The response in the theatres was FANTASTIC. People would dance and throw coins during the songs, especially ‘Kisi Disco Mein Jaaye’ and ‘Makhna’” – Raveena Tandon