Mumbai, August 17 — Former Pakistani actress Somy Ali has become the first co-star of Govinda to publicly come out in support of the actor, who has been at the centre of relentless attacks by his wife Sunita Ahuja.

On Sunday, Ali took to Instagram and shared a collage of throwback pictures with the actor. She penned a long note recollecting their professional and personal association.

“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,” she wrote.

The controversy began after Sunita Ahuja turned the promotion of Govinda’s upcoming film into a public reckoning, calling him actress Komal’s “sugar daddy” after he was spotted with the actress she had previously accused him of having an affair with. Sunita said the 62-year-old actor should be ashamed of roaming around with a woman his daughter’s age and mocked Komal’s clothes.

Ali further stated that there is nothing wrong with Govinda starring opposite a younger actress.

“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 wrote.

“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,” she added.