The Dark Side of Bollywood: Controversies and Challenges in 2025

Bollywood, India's vibrant film industry, has long been celebrated for its glamour, music, and storytelling. However, 2025 has seen a wave of controversies and challenges that reveal some unsettling facets of the industry.

One of the most talked-about issues recently is the banning of the film 'Aabeer Gulaal' in India. Starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor, this romantic film was expected to create a buzz upon its release. Yet, the Indian government prohibited its release due to lack of clearance, linked largely to the political tensions following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The government has banned Pakistani artists from participating in Indian films and platforms, affecting 'Aabeer Gulaal' directly. Social media rumors about the film releasing on September 26 were officially denied by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), confirming the ban remains in place[1]. This reflects the ongoing sensitive political climate that influences the film industry.

Alongside political controversies, Bollywood personalities are frequently entangled in social and personal disputes. For example, veteran actor Ashish Vidyarthi addressed misunderstandings related to another artist, emphasizing the importance of respect across generations. Privacy breaches have also been spotlighted recently, notably when celebrities like Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh faced outrage after a leaked video of their daughter at Mumbai airport went viral, raising concerns over media intrusion into personal lives[2].

Another societal issue involves scrutiny faced by actresses on their personal choices. Neha Dhupia spoke about unfair public and media criticism following her pregnancy before marriage, a challenge also encountered by other prominent figures such as Neena Gupta and Alia Bhatt. These pressures highlight the conservative societal norms that Bollywood celebrities continuously navigate[2].

The industry has also seen controversies fuelled by statements or social media posts. For instance, actor Vivek Agnihotri faced backlash after his remarks about Maharashtrian food, and Swara Bhaskar termed backlash over her comments on bisexuality as "stupid". These episodes show the thin line Bollywood stars walk while expressing opinions in a highly scrutinized environment[3].

Such controversies extend to creative projects as well. Prominent actors like Kajol, Shah Rukh Khan, and Ajay Devgn have featured in recent media around a series titled 'The Ba***ds of Bollywood', which has been the center of some scandals and public amusement. Aryan Khan, another emerging figure, was praised for his hard work, yet the series itself has sparked mixed reactions among audiences and critics alike[4].

In summary, while Bollywood continues to be a powerhouse of entertainment, its current landscape in 2025 is heavily marked by political bans, privacy challenges, societal scrutiny, and debates over freedom of expression. These elements collectively reveal the complex "bads of Bollywood," serving as a reminder of the industry's multifaceted reality beyond the silver screen.