Somy Ali has become the first actress to voice her support for former co-star Govinda, amid his ongoing public spat with wife, Sunita Ahuja.As the actor’s war of words rages on with his wife, Ali, on Sunday, took to her Instagram handle to share a collage of throwback pics from a photoshoot with the actor. Alongside the pictures, she penned a lengthy note, revealing her professional and personal relationship with the actor.

Somy Ali defends ‘Chichi’ Govinda

Calling him by his pet name ‘Chichi’, she defended him against criticism and called out the ageist remarks saying, “I am going to chime in here as no one else will and show support whenever it’s necessary, I have known Govinda personally and professionally which is why I can say a few things about him from both ends. Chichi is one of the greatest talents in the Hindi film industry and he is one of the most humble actors I got to know during my time within that industry.“Ali also addressed criticism over Govinda working with younger actresses. She argued, “I have immense respect for both Chichi and Sunita. However, there is nothing ageist about an actor accepting a role with a younger actress. Talent doesn’t have an expiration date. At a time when work may be difficult to find, choosing to keep working is something to respect—not ridicule. An actor’s worth isn’t determined by his age or by the age of his co-star. It’s determined by his talent, professionalism, and willingness to keep going. Getting another opportunity when doors have been difficult to open should be celebrated.”She continued, “Every actor deserves the chance to prove that they still have something meaningful to offer. Age should never become a weapon against someone who is simply trying to earn a living and continue doing what he loves. Perhaps the most admirable thing about an actor is his refusal to give up when the industry or others start telling him he’s too old.”

Sunita Ahuja’s comments about Govinda and Komal Rani Swarnkar

Govinda has been courting controversy after his wife Sunita, publicly criticised his association with newcomer actress Komal Rani Swarnkar. The actor was recently spotted with Swarnkar at an airport, amid reports linking the two ahead of their upcoming film ‘Roopa‘.Sunita has previously spoken openly about her relationship with Govinda and alleged affairs, saying that she had tolerated difficult phases in their marriage because she loved her husband. She also referred to Govinda as a “sugar daddy” while commenting on her husband’s alleged association with Swarnkar. Taking a swipe at the actor, she said to Swarnkar, “Your sugar daddy is so rich. Dress properly. Just look at our style.“When asked about Govinda actively promoting his forthcoming movie with Komal ‘Roopa’, she said, “First of all, the movie should be made. Promotion happens after the movie is complete.”Sunita was also quoted saying, “Beti ki umar ki ladki lekar ghoom raha hai, shame on him (He is roaming with a girl of his daughter’s age and he should be ashamed of himself).”

Govinda spotted with actress Rani Swarnkar

Govinda and actress Rani Swarnkar were spotted together at the Mumbai airport early this month. The co-stars have been busy promoting their upcoming film ‘Roopa’, which marks his film comeback after several years.Speaking about his return to films, Govinda said, “Maybe it was destiny that I was written off so many times. People kept saying, ‘Now he won’t appear in films anymore.’ But I always started again. I pray to God that this film achieves what I’ve envisioned, something people may not even imagine, and works its magic.”He added, “This film is especially for youngsters. When they watch it in theaters, I hope it inspires them to dream, and to believe those dreams can come true. I won’t discuss any spirituality beyond that.”Govinda was last seen in the 2019 film ‘Rangeela Raja,’ in which he played a double role. He also appeared in the 2022 documentary ‘Naam Tha Kanhaiyalal.’