Simi Garewal’s Ravana post triggers backlash, Netizens question her stand on ‘evil’ vs ‘naughty’

Veteran actress and talk show host Simi Garewal sparked controversy with her Dussehra message this year. On Thursday, she shared a post on X, where she argued that Ravana should not be branded “evil” but instead described him as “slightly naughty.”

Garewal, known for films like Mera Naam Joker and Karz and her popular chat show Rendezvous with Simi Garewal, stunned many with her remarks. She even claimed that Ravana was “more educated than half of our parliament.”

The post that stirred debate

In her note, Garewal wrote, “Dear Ravana… Every year, on this day, we celebrate the victory of good over evil.. But.. technically.. your behaviour should be re-classified from ‘Evil’ to ‘Slightly Naughty.’”

She continued, “I agree you kidnapped a lady in haste… But.. after that.. you gave her more respect than we normally give to women in today’s world. You offered her good food.. shelter.. and even women security guards (not too good looking though). Your request for marriage was full of humility.. and you never threw acids when rejected. Even when Lord Rama killed you.. you were wise enough to seek his apologies.”

Strong backlash online

The post triggered an immediate reaction. Many social media users criticised her interpretation of the Ramayana and accused her of downplaying Ravana’s actions.

One user commented, “Raavan’s crimes weren’t limited to Vedavati, Rambha, or Madanamanjari. Texts describe a pattern — abductions, assaults across kingdoms, rishi lineages, even devas. A collective curse rose from the wounds he left behind. Not just a villain — an empire of Adharma.”

Another wrote, “Either you have never read the Valmiki Ramaya?a or you are the biggest hypocrite. In the past you demanded rapists be castrated and hanged, yet here you are glorifying Rava?a, a violent serial sexual predator as ‘slightly naughty’ and whining about him being symbolically burned just so you can mock Hinduism and push your politics?”

While some found her post provocative but humorous, the majority labelled it as disrespectful during a festival that symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Garewal has not yet responded to the backlash.