Somy Ali Recalls Special Cameo with Govinda in Agnichakra

Mumbai, August 31, 2025 — Actress-turned-humanitarian Somy Ali, now renowned for her work with the US-based NGO No More Tears, recently took a nostalgic detour to her Bollywood days, sharing fond memories of her cameo in the 1997 film Agnichakra. In a heartfelt social media post, Somy described the experience as “special,” not just for the role but for the opportunity to work alongside superstar Govinda, whom she affectionately calls “Chichi.” The actress, who left an indelible mark on Hindi cinema in the 1990s with films like Anth, Yaar Gaddar, and Andolan, opened up about the serendipitous moment that led to her final Bollywood appearance.

Somy revealed that her cameo in Agnichakra was an unplanned but cherished opportunity. “My last film had to be a cameo/special appearance, and ‘special’ it was with none other than Chichi,” she wrote. With a flight back to Miami scheduled the next day, Somy didn’t hesitate when her agent, who also represented Govinda, pitched the role. “The minute my agent said it’s with Chichi, I was more than ecstatic,” she recalled. In the film, she played Govinda’s ex-girlfriend, a character who had passed away, appearing in a poignant scene toward the end. For Somy, however, the real joy was sharing the screen with an actor she had long admired for his infectious energy and talent.

Beyond the set, Somy shared a personal anecdote that underscored Govinda’s humility. She reminisced about a visit from the Bollywood icon to her Mount Mary Road flat in Mumbai, where they bonded over a simple meal. “We sat on the floor eating daal chawal together,” she wrote, noting her preference for sitting on the floor over a dining table—a habit Govinda surprisingly shared. “My favorite meal, and to my surprise, so did this star,” she added. This moment of camaraderie left a lasting impression, highlighting Govinda’s grounded personality despite his towering fame.

Somy’s post brimmed with admiration for Govinda’s character. “If I begin writing the qualities Govinda has, there wouldn’t be any space left,” she said, praising his lack of arrogance, excellent sense of humor, and genuine decency. “To this day, he remains the most decent human in the Hindi cinema industry,” she emphasized. Her words paint a picture of a star who remained unaffected by fame, a quality that resonated deeply with Somy during her time in Bollywood.

Somy’s brief but impactful stint in the industry during the early to mid-1990s saw her deliver strong performances alongside major stars. Though she stepped away from acting to focus on her humanitarian work, her reflections offer a glimpse into the warmth and camaraderie that defined her Bollywood journey. Her NGO, No More Tears, continues to support survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking in the United States, showcasing her commitment to making a difference beyond the silver screen.

The nostalgic post has struck a chord with fans, reigniting memories of Govinda’s golden era in Bollywood, marked by his comedic genius and versatile performances in films like Hero No. 1 and Coolie No. 1. For Somy, the cameo in Agnichakra was more than just a role—it was a chance to work with a beloved icon and create memories that endure nearly three decades later. As she continues her humanitarian work, Somy’s heartfelt recollection serves as a reminder of the personal connections that often define an artist’s journey, both on and off the screen.