Actors Chunky Panday and Govinda made a surprising revelation about their experience working on David Dhawan’s 1993 comedy Ankhen. During their appearance on The Great Indian Kapil Show, they shared how the monkey in the film was pampered and paid more than them.
A Tale of Three Heroes
Joined by co-star Shakti Kapoor, the actors reminisced about the shooting of Ankhen. Shakti humorously remarked, “We did this film together where these two were the heroes. Actually, no, there were three heroes—Govinda, Chunky, and a monkey. Ask them.”
Chunky confirmed the claim, saying, “Yes, [the monkey] was paid more handsomely than us.” Govinda added, “We didn’t get paid.”
The trio also shared amusing anecdotes about the monkey’s luxurious treatment. According to Shakti, the monkey had a room at Mumbai’s Sun-n-Sand hotel. “Whenever David would call for the monkey, Chunky would show up. Whenever he called for Chunky, the monkey would show up,” he joked.
Chunky Panday on the Monkey’s Stardom
In an earlier interview with Hindustan Times, Chunky had shared more details about the monkey’s star status. “He was a very expensive monkey from down south and used to fly with six assistants. He was a big star who would stay at hotel Sun-n-Sand,” Chunky said. “Crazy things used to happen on set because of this fellow, but he was equally loved by everyone.”
Chunky Panday’s Current Projects
Chunky Panday is currently filming for Housefull 5, directed by Tarun Mansukhani. The comedy ensemble also stars Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, and Jacqueline Fernandez, among others. Initially set for a Diwali 2024 release, the film will now hit theaters in June 2025.
Despite the humorous revelations about Ankhen, Chunky and Govinda’s lighthearted approach highlights their fond memories of working on the film, even if a monkey stole the spotlight—and the paycheck.
Sources By Agencies
