Govinda, widely known as Bollywood’s “Hero No. 1,” dominated the 90s with his unmatched comic timing, energetic dance style, and hit films. One of his biggest successes was the 1993 film Aankhen, which became the highest-grossing movie of that year. But long before Govinda’s version created waves, Dharmendra had already delivered a blockbuster with a film of the same name nearly 25 years earlier.

While Govinda’s Aankhen set new records in 1993, Dharmendra—popularly called Bollywood’s “He-Man”—had achieved similar success with his own Aankhen in the late 60s. Interestingly, Dharmendra’s version too became the top-grossing film of its release year.

When was Dharmendra’s Aankhen released?
Govinda’s Aankhen, featuring Chunky Pandey, Kader Khan, Ritu Shivpuri, Shakti Kapoor, and Raageshwari, hit theaters on April 9, 1993. Dharmendra’s Aankhen, however, had already released on July 26, 1968, with Mala Sinha as the female lead. The film was an action-packed drama that resonated strongly with audiences of that era.

A record-breaking hit in 1968
The 1968 film also starred Kumkum, Sujit Kumar, Mehmood, Amarnath, Lalita Pawar, Daisy Irani, Nazir Hussain, Jeevan, and Madan Puri. Directed and produced by Ramanand Sagar, who also wrote the story and dialogues, the film was made on a budget of ₹8.5 million. It turned out to be a major commercial success, earning ₹3.25 crore in India and ₹6 crore worldwide. Aankhen eventually became the highest-grossing Bollywood film of 1968.

Govinda meets Dharmendra in hospital
A few days ago, 89-year-old Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital due to health-related issues. Govinda visited him to check on his well-being. Dharmendra has since been discharged and is currently recovering at home. Reports suggest that his condition is now improving steadily.