Year Ender 2025: From Set Rules to Courtroom Fights, Bollywood's Controversies That Defined The Year

New Delhi: The Hindi film industry had no shortage of drama in 2025. But much of it unfolded away from movie sets and box-office charts. From debates over working hours to bitter family court battles, several controversies dominated headlines and sparked sharp conversations within the industry and among fans. 

Here is a clear look at the biggest Bollywood controversies of the year, each leaving its own mark.

Did Deepika Padukone's 8-Hour Shift Demand Change the Industry Conversation?

One of the most discussed moments of the year came when actress Deepika Padukone reportedly asked for an eight-hour workday on a major film project. The demand, made after she returned to work as a new mother, triggered a wider debate on working conditions in Bollywood.

Long shooting hours have been the norm in the industry for decades. The request reportedly contributed to her exit from high-profile films including Sandeep Reddy Vanga's 'Spirit' and Nag Ashwin's 'Kalki 2', sparking social media chatter and division among fans and industry insiders alike.

Why Did Karisma Kapoor's Children Take the Legal Route Over Sunjay Kapur's Estate?

Another major controversy of 2025 unfolded inside a courtroom over the multibillion-dollar estate of businessman Sunjay Kapur, who died on June 12, while playing polo in London. Actress Karisma Kapoor and Sunjay Kapur, who divorced in 2016, share two children, Samaira and Kiaan. The children have filed a lawsuit against Priya Sachdev, their father's third wife. The dispute revolves around the validity of a will and the distribution of assets. 

Did Paresh Rawal Exit From 'Hera Pheri 3'?

Earlier, actor Paresh Rawal, the iconic Baburao, temporarily stepped away from the much-anticipated 'Hera Pheri 3' but later the actor confirmed his return to the 'Hera Pheri' franchise after resolving issues with the makers.

In the podcast 'The Himanshu Mehta Show', the actor said, "It's all resolved now. Nothing has happened. I believe that when people have loved something so much, then you have to be extra careful. It is our responsibility toward the audience. The audience has given you so much adulation. You can't take things for granted."

Was Kamal Haasan's Statement on Language and Identity Misread?

Actor Kamal Haasan found himself in the middle of a language and cultural debate after remarks he made during a public event were interpreted as dismissive by certain groups. During the audio launch of Mani Ratnam's directorial 'Thug life' in Chennai, he said that "Tamil gave birth to Kannada." 

The actor-politician later clarified his position, saying his comments were misunderstood.

Why Did Anurag Kashyap's Creative Comments Upset the Industry?

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap once again made headlines for speaking bluntly about the state of Hindi cinema. His comments on censorship, box-office obsession, and lack of creative freedom angered some industry insiders.

In an interview with the media, Anurag said, “I want to stay away from film people. The industry has become too toxic. Everyone is chasing unrealistic targets.” 

While many young filmmakers echoed his concerns, others felt he was unfairly criticising colleagues. The controversy reinforced Kashyap’s image as Bollywood’s most outspoken critic from within.

Did Diljit Dosanjh Face Backlash Over Casting In ‘Sardaar Ji 3’?

Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh faced criticism for working with Pakistani actor Hania Aamir in the film ‘Sardaar Ji 3’. The Punjabi movie headed for an international release, skipping screenings in India in the wake of the diplomatic and military tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.

Did Ranveer Singh Face Backlash For Mimicking?

Actor Ranveer Singh faced backlash at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa for mimicking the sacred Daiva scene from ‘Kantara’, particularly for calling the deity a "female ghost" and performing it comically.

"I watched Kantara in theaters, and Rishab's performance was outstanding, especially when the female ghost enters your body; that shot was so amazing,” he said.

Later the actor also issued a public apology, explaining his intent was to praise Rishab Shetty's performance.