MUMBAI (Diya TV) — B-town witnessed some of its biggest scandals and controversies in 2025. From personal disputes among actors to security incidents and film release battles, the year proved dramatic for the Indian film industry. As 2025 comes to a close, here are the major controversies that shook Bollywood this year.
The year began with a shocking incident at actor Saif Ali Khan’s Bandra residence. An intruder armed with a knife attempted a robbery. Saif and the intruder got into a scuffle, leaving the actor seriously injured. The attack raised public concerns about celebrity safety. Social media discussions and news outlets debated measures to strengthen security for actors and high-profile figures.
The Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Sardaar Ji 3 stirred controversy over casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. The decision came shortly after the Pahalgam attacks and Operation Sindoor, fueling criticism. Amid the backlash, Diljit decided not to release the film in India. The debate reflected broader tensions around cross-border casting in Bollywood projects.
The Bombay High Court ruled that deepfake videos of Shilpa Shetty must be removed. The case brought attention to the rising misuse of artificial intelligence and highlighted the importance of personality rights online. Experts warned about the potential for AI to manipulate images and videos, putting celebrities at risk.
Deepika Padukone opted out of the film Spirit and was dropped from the Kalki 2898 AD sequel. Reports suggest disagreements over working conditions, including eight-hour shift demands and contract terms. The moves sparked discussions about work-life balance and fairness for actors in high-budget projects.
Hera Pheri 3 faced behind-the-scenes conflicts involving actors and producers. The tension became public, creating friction around the highly anticipated franchise. Similarly, Bhool Chuk Maaf ran into a release dispute. PVR Inox clashed with the filmmakers over streaming rights, resulting in courtroom drama about exclusivity windows.
Ranveer Singh sparked controversy after a playful reference in Kantara: Chapter 1. Many online users criticized the actor for perceived cultural insensitivity. Singh later apologized, emphasizing respect for audiences and cultural sentiments. The incident highlighted how social media can amplify celebrity controversies.
Akshaye Khanna surprised fans by leaving Drishyam 3. Reports suggest the exit stemmed from disagreements over creative choices and remuneration. The actor reportedly sought a fee increase of up to INR 21 crore (more than $2 million), which the makers could not accommodate. The departure triggered widespread media coverage and industry speculation.
Recently, a clip from a live performance featuring A. P. Dhillon went viral. It allegedly showed the singer kissing actress Tara Sutaria on stage. The clip also captured her boyfriend, Veer Pahariya, appearing uncomfortable. The video ignited discussions online, dividing opinions between critics and supporters. Netizens turned the incident into a trending topic, sparking memes and relationship speculation.
2025 proved to be a turbulent year for Bollywood. From violent incidents and legal battles to high-profile film exits and viral moments, the industry faced intense scrutiny. Experts note that social media has played a growing role in shaping controversies, making public perception a powerful force in the world of cinema.
