**Simi Garewal’s Controversial Dussehra Post Defends Raavan, Sparks Backlash on Social Media**
On Thursday, veteran actress Simi Garewal took to X (formerly Twitter) to wish everyone a Happy Dussehra. However, her post quickly stirred controversy, as she appeared to defend the actions of Raavan, the demon king traditionally portrayed as the embodiment of evil in the Ramayana.
In her tweet, Simi 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’. After all, tumne kiya hi kya tha? (sic)”
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. And.. I believe you were more educated than half of our Parliament. Trust me dude.. there ain’t no any hard feelings to burn you… Just that it’s the In-Thing. Happy Dussera (sic).”
### Netizens React Strongly Against Simi’s Tweet
The actor’s unconventional take on Dussehra and Raavan’s character sparked strong reactions online, with many netizens expressing their displeasure.
One user responded, “Ravan was not ‘slightly naughty,’ he was the face of Adharma. Abducting Maa Sita was not an act of romance but a heinous crime. His arrogance, lust, and misuse of power brought destruction upon Lanka. Dussera is not about mocking traditions but about remembering that no matter how mighty evil appears, Dharma always triumphs. Whitewashing Ravan is an insult to our scriptures, our culture, and the eternal values of Sanatan Dharma (sic).”
Another sarcastically commented, “So if someone abducts you without your consent and treats you well in captivity then it will not be evil but just naughty? Girl, what kind of kinks do you have at this age?? Also DM me your address (sic).”
One more user criticized the post, saying, “That’s a bizarre Dusshera wish. As it’s symbolic for good over evil. Taking it quite literally makes it sound like an old Bollywood script. Harass the leading lady long enough and she will fall in love. I listened to your show and this tweet is out of character. In my humble and personal opinion (sic).”
### About Simi Garewal
Simi Garewal, a popular actress of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, has maintained a strong presence in the Indian entertainment industry. After stepping away from acting, she re-emerged in the public eye through her acclaimed chat show, *Rendezvous with Simi Garewal*, known for its candid celebrity interviews.
—
Simi’s Dussehra post serves as a reminder of how deeply cultural symbols and narratives resonate in society—and how nuanced interpretations can provoke heated debates.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/you-were-more-educated-than-half-of-our-parliament-simi-garewal-defends-raavan-on-dussehra-leaves-netizens-fuming
