Can I install 2 OS in a single hard-drive ?

[Ananias]

I have Windows XP installed in my hard drive, now I want to install in the same hard drive, without taking backing up of all the data and perform a clean installation?
Is dual-booting possible? how?

[Devasis]

Yes, Dual booting is possible if done corectly.
This depends on many factors-
-what OS's you are trying to dual boot
-the order which you install the OS's
-what hardware configuration you are using

Infact,the easiest dual-boot was with Windows XP and Linux.
The rule of thumb is to install Windows first, then Linux.
If you install Linux first, then Windows, it can be fixed but it is more of a hassle.

[Calvin K]

Yup, just insert the disc like normal installation,but install Linux into a different directory than Windows XP so that so you don't overwrite them.

[Ananias]

will application work fine in both the OS?

[Calvin K]

No, your applications won't work on both the versions.
Whatever applications are installed for the Windows XP would have to be re-installed on the Linux.