The wider picture
Varun Dhawan and his father, renowned filmmaker David Dhawan, recently made an appearance on The Great Indian Kapil Show to promote their upcoming film Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai. This film, which is set to release on June 12, 2026, features a talented cast including Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde. The father-son duo took the opportunity to discuss their creative process and the legacy of David Dhawan’s collaborations with iconic actor Govinda.
During the show, Varun Dhawan expressed admiration for Sunil Grover’s tribute to the late Kader Khan, which was well-received by both him and David Dhawan. Varun shared the tribute video on his Instagram story, highlighting the importance of honoring the contributions of past legends in the film industry.
David Dhawan, who has directed a total of 17 films with Govinda, reflected on their successful partnership, stating, “I have done 17 films with Govinda; all have been superhits. I believe one of the best actors I have worked with is Govinda.” This statement underscores the significant impact Govinda has had on David’s career and the Bollywood landscape.
Varun Dhawan also revealed that his father often compares his performances to those of Govinda, Salman Khan, and Anil Kapoor. He remarked, “Whatever scene gets written, every scene he remembers Govinda, he thinks how Chichi Bhaiyya would do the scene.” This comparison places Varun in a challenging position, as he strives to carve out his unique identity while acknowledging the influence of these legendary actors.
Despite the pressure of these comparisons, Varun emphasized the importance of finding his own approach to acting. He stated, “But I have to find out how Varun would do that scene.” This reflects his commitment to authenticity in his performances, even when drawing inspiration from his father’s references.
As the release date of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai approaches, the film’s promotional activities are expected to intensify. The shift in the release date was a strategic decision made to avoid a box-office clash, indicating the competitive nature of the industry. Observers are keen to see how the film will perform, especially given the legacy of David Dhawan’s past successes.
The Great Indian Kapil Show, now in its fourth season, is available for streaming on Netflix, providing a platform for celebrities to connect with audiences in a light-hearted setting. As Varun and David Dhawan continue to engage with fans through such appearances, their dynamic as a father-son duo remains a focal point of interest in the Bollywood community.
With the film’s release on the horizon, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to witness how Varun Dhawan’s performance will resonate with audiences, especially in light of his father’s storied career and the comparisons that come with it. As the promotional campaign unfolds, the anticipation surrounding Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai continues to grow.
