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Businessman No 1?

There has been a tremendous change in the actor, a man with a big heart and bigger smile, fondly called Chi Chi. He is more relaxed and looks younger.

When asked to reveal the secret behind his fitness, he replied that he had changed his style of working. "I have not signed a single film in the past two years. I have decided to work in fewer quality films with more emphasis on improving the technical finesse of my acting, costumes and roles. I have become very punctual too," he laughed.

Govinda said that he had learnt the art of living a planned life -- professionally as well as personally -- and was very happy. He said he was now working towards his goal of winning an Oscar.

Recently, Govinda has taken on a different mantle -- that of a distributor -- by launching his own company, Govinda Yashvardhan No 1 Distributors. The first film to be released under the banner is Hadh Kar Di Apne, his latest flick opposite Rani Mukherjee. For the moment, he has decided to distribute only films he stars in, and only in the Bombay circuit.

Govinda described his new move as a "step in a positive direction" and felt that his decision to explore other avenues in showbiz was a "business strategy."

He has also started another company called Govinda Entertainment No 1 which will make television commercials. "I am wholly involved with the company and all its projects," but he does not intend to turn producer or director. Incidentally, the recent Navratan Hair Oil commercial was made by his company, he added.

The actor did not not think that his humble nature and lack of business acumen would prove to be a hindrance. "I have known several people who, despite having all the qualities of good businesspersons, have bitten the dust," he points out. "I am sincere in my commitment and have a perfect relationship with all those involved. Besides, I have the blessings of my elders."

The No 1 tag, which has been a lucky mascot for Govinda, remains with him. He hopes that his new venture, Govinda Yashvardhan No 1 Distributors, would be a success like his No 1 films.

When asked about the recent demand for corporatisation of the entertainment industry during a seminar on entertainment business in Bombay, Govinda said that it was a good move as the entertainment and software industry have tremendous potential.

Despite his hectic schedule, Govinda revealed that he surfs the Net regularly and also has an e-mail address. "I cannot operate the computer fast, so I need help," he said.

Ever since the BBC opinion poll voted him among the most popular film stars in the world, offers to launch his own website have been pouring in. "I am considering the proposal and may take a decision by the year-end," Govinda said.

When asked whether he felt that his style of acting had become monotonous, he replied that his comedy films had worked and that whenever he tried his hand at dramatic roles, like the one in Naseeb, his fans rejected them.

"I see nothing wrong in continuing to do what my fans love," he said, adding that he had no objection being branded as an entertainer.

--UNI