Year Ender 2025: Top Controversies That Kept Everyone Talking

In April 2025, Virat Kohli accidentally liked an Instagram post by actress Avneet Kaur, which quickly created a buzz on social media. The cricketer later clarified that it was an algorithm-related mistake while clearing his feed and carried no wrong intent. The incident unexpectedly boosted Avneet Kaur’s popularity, leading to a rise in her followers and brand value, with the actress expressing gratitude for the love and support she received.

Along with debates on pay gaps, nepotism, and the treatment of women, 2025 also saw a big discussion about an eight-hour workday in films. The issue started after new mother Deepika Padukone stepped away from major projects like Spirit and the Kalki 2898 AD sequel, reportedly due to work-hour demands and creative differences. Her decision sparked industry-wide talk about work-life balance and fair conditions for women after motherhood, leaving actors and producers divided

Saif Ali Khan was attacked on January 16 when an accused named Shehzad allegedly broke into his Bandra home during a robbery attempt. The actor was seriously injured and admitted to Lilavati Hospital, where he stayed for five days before being discharged on January 21. The incident shocked the film industry and led to discussions about celebrity safety and privacy, while insensitive social media posts and paparazzi behaviour added to the controversy.

Fans were shocked when Paresh Rawal announced his exit from the much-awaited Hera Pheri 3, even leading to a legal notice from Akshay Kumar’s production house. Although the actor later rejoined the project, the episode highlighted tensions around fees and creative control within long-running franchises, and the film’s schedule remains unclear. Directed by Priyadarshan, Hera Pheri 3 brings back Akshay Kumar as Raju, Suniel Shetty as Shyam, and Paresh Rawal as Baburao.

Punjabi-Bollywood star Diljit Dosanjh sparked controversy after casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in Sardaar Ji 3, triggering backlash amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack. Facing criticism from FWICE, the film industry, and social media, the makers announced the film would not release in India, though Diljit continued promoting it online. After the April 22, 2025 attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 civilians, a blanket ban on Pakistani artists was imposed, also affecting Fawad Khan’s comeback film Abir Gulaal, leading to its ban in India and backlash against co-star Vaani Kapoor.

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana’s wedding with singer Palaash Muchhal was postponed from its planned November 24 date after her father reportedly showed heart attack symptoms. Soon after, controversy erupted when an Instagram user leaked alleged chats involving Palaash, leading to rumors of infidelity and cryptic posts on social media. In early December, Smriti and Palaash officially confirmed that their wedding had been called off, though they did not share a clear reason.

The Samay Raina–hosted show India’s Got Latent landed in major trouble after Ranveer Allahbadia asked an offensive question to a contestant, which upset many viewers. Police complaints were filed in Mumbai and Guwahati against people linked to the show. The issue grew bigger due to other controversies involving panellist Apoorva Mukhija and remarks seen as insensitive toward persons with special needs. After the backlash, Samay Raina shared an apology on Instagram on October 26.