Govinda Issues Apology Over Wife Sunita’s Remarks on Family Priest, Calls Pandit Mukesh Shukla ‘Virtuous and Respected’

Govinda said, “Respected Pandit Mukesh Shukla ji is a highly qualified, authentic, and virtuous person. There are very few such families in Uttar Pradesh with deep knowledge of Yagya-vidhi and its principles. My respected wife made some inappropriate comments about him, for which I sincerely apologise.”

He further added that his family had been associated with Shukla’s family for years and that they had supported him through difficult times. “Pandit Mukesh ji and his family have stood by me during my struggles. I have immense respect for them,” he said.

The controversy began after Sunita Ahuja appeared on a podcast with actor Paras Chhabra, during which she made a dismissive remark about their family priest. Responding to Chhabra’s comment that “not every astrologer is right,” Sunita said, “We also have one at home, Govinda’s priest. He performs pujas and charges ₹2 lakh. I say, do it yourself — nothing happens from such pujas.”

Sunita’s remarks drew criticism online and from sections of the priest community. In the same podcast, she added, “God accepts devotion done with your own hands. I don’t pay anyone for worship. Only those who fear, get afraid.”

Following the backlash, Govinda’s apology appears aimed at mending ties and reaffirming his long-standing respect for the Shukla family. The priest has yet to issue a public response.