Bollywood Happenings That Raised Eyebrows, Drew Headlines
MUMBAI – 2025 saw several high-profile controversies across the Hindi film industry, with issues ranging from workplace debates and casting disputes to public criticism of media practices and personal decisions.
One of the most discussed developments involved Deepika Padukone, who exited director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s upcoming film ‘Spirit’. Reports indicated the actress sought an eight-hour workday, triggering an industry-wide debate on work schedules and professional expectations. She later parted ways with the film ‘Kalki 2898 AD’, with the production house stating that the decision was taken after careful consideration.
A security scare involving actor Saif Ali Khan also drew attention after an intruder, identified as Mohammad Shariful Islam, broke into his Mumbai residence in January. The actor suffered serious injuries during a scuffle with the intruder. Officials later confirmed that a 1,600-page chargesheet has been filed in the case.
Personal developments also made headlines. Following the death of industrialist Sunjay Kapur in June, a legal dispute was reported involving his widow, Priya Sachdev Kapur, and his children with former wife Karisma Kapoor. Court proceedings related to an estimated Rs 30,000 crore estate were initiated, with the Delhi High Court recently reserving its order on the matter.
In the music and film space, singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh faced criticism over his film ‘Sardaar Ji 3’, which featured Pakistani actor Hania Aamir. The casting sparked online debate amid a broader industry ban on artists from across the border following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Meanwhile, the web series ‘The Ba**ds of Bollywood’, linked to Aryan Khan’s directorial debut, became the subject of legal proceedings. Former official Sameer Wankhede filed a defamation suit alleging the content maligned his reputation. The matter remains in court, with both sides filing responses.
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal was also in the news following reports of his exit from ‘Hera Pheri 3’ over a payment clause dispute. Subsequent updates indicated the differences were resolved and he returned to the project. Separately, actor Jaya Bachchan voiced concerns over paparazzi culture, questioning media ethics and the boundaries of privacy in public spaces.
The year also saw a high-profile personal change for cricketer Smriti Mandhana and composer Palaash Muchhal. Originally scheduled for late November, their wedding was first postponed due to Mandhana’s father’s health and was later officially called off. (ANI)
