Taking to Instagram on Sunday, Ali shared a throwback photoshoot collage with Govinda, addressing the ongoing controversy surrounding his upcoming feature film Roopa and the online criticism directed at his age and choice of co-stars.
"Age Should Never Become a Weapon": Somy Ali’s Statement
Calling the veteran actor by his affectionate moniker "Chichi", Ali emphasized that an actor's longevity and willingness to keep working in a competitive industry should be applauded rather than weaponized:
"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."
"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... 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."
— Somy Ali, via Instagram
Background: The Ongoing Spat Between Govinda and Sunita
The public exchange began earlier this month after Govinda was spotted at Mumbai airport alongside his upcoming film Roopa's lead actress, newcomer Komal Rani Swarnkar.
Sunita Ahuja’s Remarks: Speaking openly in recent media interactions, Sunita took sharp jibes at her husband's public appearances with Swarnkar, questioning the project's production timeline and commenting on the significant age gap.
Govinda's Response: Interacting with paparazzi shortly after, Govinda pushed back against the public comments, asking for boundaries to be respected and urging against making personal marital matters a public spectacle.
Govinda’s Big-Screen Return with 'Roopa'
Govinda, who was last seen leading the 2019 comedy Rangeela Raja, has been actively promoting Roopa as his formal return to feature films:
Speaking on his persistence in the industry, Govinda previously noted: "Maybe it was destiny that I was written off so many times... 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."
Trade Verdict:
Somy Ali’s intervention shifts the narrative from sensationalized marital headlines back to the challenges faced by veteran actors navigating career resurgences in Hindi cinema. Her vocal support adds a measured perspective on ageism and creative persistence in an industry often driven by rapid trend cycles.
