Simi Garewal was born as Simrita Garewal on 17 October 1947 in Ludhiana, Punjab, India. Her father, Brigadier J. S. Garewal, served in the Indian Army. She spent much of her childhood in England and studied at Newland House School.
She returned to India as a teenager with the ambition of becoming an actress. Her acting career began with the English-language film Tarzan Goes to India (1962), in which she appeared alongside Feroz Khan. The film brought her to the attention of Indian filmmakers and led to further acting opportunities.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Simi worked with several of India's most respected filmmakers. Her notable films included Do Badan (1966), Saathi (1968), Mera Naam Joker (1970), Siddhartha (1972), Aranyer Din Ratri (1970) and Padatik. She worked with filmmakers including Raj Kapoor, Satyajit Ray and Mrinal Sen.
Her performance in Siddhartha (1972), based on Hermann Hesse's novel, attracted considerable attention and controversy because of a nude scene. The film faced censorship difficulties in India.
Simi continued appearing in Hindi films, including Kabhi Kabhie (1976), Chase, and the popular musical thriller Karz (1980). She also worked in films outside mainstream Hindi cinema.
In addition to acting, Simi explored film direction and production. Her later career became particularly associated with television. She created and hosted Rendezvous with Simi Garewal, a highly regarded celebrity interview programme known for its elegant presentation and intimate conversations with prominent Indian and international personalities.
Simi Garewal has remained an influential figure in Indian entertainment, with her career extending from cinema into television, filmmaking and celebrity journalism.