Veteran Bollywood actor Govinda, who recently made headlines due to divorce rumors, has now sparked fresh buzz by claiming that he was offered a role in James Cameron’s sci-fi blockbuster Avatar (2009). In a recent interview with Mukesh Khanna on his YouTube channel, Govinda revealed that he turned down the offer despite being offered a massive Rs 18 crore fee and even suggested the film’s title.
The Hero No. 1 star shared that he was introduced to James Cameron by a businessman in the U.S., whom he had previously helped with a successful business idea. The meeting led to an offer to star in Avatar, but Govinda had reservations. "I have left an offer of Rs 21.5 crore, and I remember this because it was very painful leaving it. A Sardarji in America introduced me to James Cameron. I invited them for dinner to discuss the project," he said.
According to Govinda, Cameron described the protagonist as a handicapped character (referring to Jake Sully, played by Sam Worthington), which led him to decline the role. Additionally, the extensive 410-day shoot and full-body paint required for the role concerned him. "I told James Cameron that if I paint my body, I will end up in the hospital," Govinda explained, emphasizing how an actor’s body is their primary instrument.
Perhaps the most surprising claim was that he suggested the title ‘Avatar’ for the film. He did not specify whether Cameron had a different working title before, but his statement has certainly intrigued fans. James Cameron’s Avatar became a global phenomenon, shattering box office records and earning critical acclaim for its groundbreaking visuals and storytelling. The film grossed over $2.9 billion worldwide and was followed by Avatar: The Way of Water in 2022.
On workfront, Govinda is gearing up for a comeback in Bollywood. Speaking on The Great Indian Kapil Show, he confirmed that he has three films lined up for release in 2025, marking his return to the big screen after a long hiatus.