Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has faced widespread outrage and criticism for a recent social media post where he controversially compared the ongoing conflict and bombings in the Gaza Strip to the Indian festival of Diwali.
In his post on X (formerly Twitter), Varma wrote,
“In INDIA only one day is DIWALI and in GAZA, every day is DIWALI,” accompanied by a fire emoji.
In INDIA only one day is DIWALI and in GAZA, every day is DIWALI🔥🔥🔥
— Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) October 20, 2025
This remark has been widely condemned as “insensitive,” “inhumane,” and “disgusting” by social media users and public figures alike.
Critics argue that the post trivializes the significant human suffering, destruction, and loss of life in Gaza by drawing a parallel between a festival of lights and a war zone with constant explosions.
Social media was flooded with negative comments and calls for accountability, with many users demanding an apology.
Political figures, such as Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi, slammed the filmmaker, stating, “Imagine comparing Diwali celebrations to Gaza’s crimes of war. What makes a person so hateful is something I’ll never fathom or ever hope to”.
Imagine comparing Diwali celebration to Gaza’s crimes of war.
At least these social media platforms helped us identify the ‘famous’ yet the hateful amongst us.
What makes a person so hateful is something I’ll never fathom or ever hope to. pic.twitter.com/aa7mKQfBR0— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) October 21, 2025
Netizens pointed out that the post clashed with the true spirit of Diwali, a festival of light, peace, and hope.
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Some users urged X to take action against the post for allegedly spreading hate and mocking mass killing. The filmmaker, known for his controversial statements, has not issued an apology or clarification for the post as of yet.
Varma is known for his history of controversial statements and posts on social media
