Known in the media as ‘No 1’ for starring in numerous films with ‘No 1’ in the title and credited as one the best actors to ever step foot in the film industry. King of comedy, Govinda, turns 54 today (December 21).

Having appeared in more than 165 films, the veteran actor has won numerous awards and recognition in a career spanning over three decades. Also being considered as one of the most versatile actors of the nation, Govinda’s rise to stardom came from his forte, Comedy, and with so many memorable roles to his credit, the actor has rightfully earned the moniker of ‘king of comedy’.

To pay a tribute to the actor on his special day, let’s check out a list of his most iconic roles in super hit films;

Raja Babu

The film marked the beginning for one of the most iconic trios of Bollywood, Govinda, David Dhawan, and Karishma Kapoor. Raja Babu is Govinda’s one of the most iconic roles till date as many young actors consider this role of Govinda’s as one of his most hilarious roles ever. The film was a huge commercial success and emerged Govinda as one of the leading men of Bollywood.

Coolie No 1

The beginning of what is often referred as one of the best comedy series of Bollywood, No 1, Coolie No 1 starred Govinda and Karishma Kapoor in the lead and was directed by long time collaborator of the actor, David Dhawan. Over the years the movie has become a classic and has gained a cult status among fans. Govinda also received the Star Screen Award Special Jury for his performance in the film.

Hero No 1

The film, which was inspired by Rajesh Khanna’s Bawarchi, featured Govinda and Karishma Kapoor in the film with an ensemble cast. The film is one of the most successful outings for the duo and post this film, Karishma and Govinda were considered as one of the best on-screen jodis of Bollywood. Hero No 1 is the second film in the No.1 film series.

Deewana Mastana

A 1997 film, starring Anil Kapoor, Govinda and Juhi Chawla in the lead, borrows some elements from the Hollywood comedy film, What About Bob?. The film was a huge success upon its release and Govinda’s character, Bunnu, was well received by the fans and critics. Interestingly, Deewana Mastana is one of the two films, where the trio of Kapoor, Govinda and Juhi worked together in a film, the other being Salam-E-Ishq.

Aunty No 1

Govinda has appeared in dual role films like Aankhen, Aag and Anari No 1, but this was the first time in a film, where an actor went on to act as both the male and female lead in the film. Govinda starred in the film as Gopi and Maharani Kanaklakshmi, with the latter as the love interest of two old men. Govinda was widely appreciated for both of his roles in the film and fans consider Aunty No 1 as one of the most hilarious film of his career.

Dulhe Raja

Govinda’s on screen chemistry with Karishma Kapoor is refered to as one of the best jodis of Bollywood. But the actor had a second jodi, which was equally good. Govinda and Raveena Tandon has done numerous super hit films in their careers, with Dulhe Raja being one of them. The film ranks among one of the most popular films of all time and still enjoys a great run on Television.

Haseena Maan Jaayegi

Not just female actors, but Govinda has also had a great working relationship with director, David Dhawan, and actor, Sanjay Dutt. The actor has worked with the two on numerous occasions, with Haseena Maan Jaayegi and Jodi No 1 among the most popular comedy films of Bollywood. Haseena Maan Jaayegi featured an ensemble cast with Govinda yet again stealing the spotlight with his incredible comic timing and slap stick comedy.

Jodi No 1

Seems like the actor’s obsession with being No 1 would never end. But what’s the harm if fans love you and your status of being the No 1 in the business. Jodi No 1 featured Govinda and Sanjay Dutt, in their sixth film together. The film is popular for Dutt and Govinda’s on-screen pairing and the soundtrack. The film, was directed by the actor’s longtime good friend, David Dhawan.

Hadh Kardi Aapne

Nobody can forget the hilarious television sequence, where Govinda essayed different characters in a tv box! Although the film, which received mixed reviews from the critics, opened to a positive note in theatres. Govinda starred in the film alongside Rani Mukherji for the first time in his career.

Partner

After a brief hiatus from acting followed by a setback of failures, Govinda made his comeback with Sohail Khan’s Partner in 2007. The film was universally appreciated and ranks among the top grossing films of 2007. Govinda was widely appreciated for his portrayal of Bhaskar Devakar Chaudhary , with some critics referring the film as a comeback film made only for Govinda.