Aryan Khan’s highly anticipated directorial debut “The Bads of Bollywood” has found itself embroiled in a significant legal controversy just days after its Netflix premiere. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has demanded immediate action against Ranbir Kapoor, Netflix, and the show’s producers over a contentious vaping scene that has sparked nationwide debate about responsible content creation.
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NHRC Takes Swift Action Against Netflix Series
The controversy erupted when the NHRC received a formal complaint about a scene in Episode 7 of “The Bads of Bollywood,” where Ranbir Kapoor is shown using an e-cigarette without any statutory warning or disclaimer.
The commission has now issued notices to both the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Mumbai Police Commissioner, demanding an Action Taken Report within stipulated timeframes.
| NHRC Action Details | Specifics |
|---|---|
| Complaint Filed By | Vinay Joshi (Legal Rights Observatory) |
| Episode in Question | Season 1, Episode 7 |
| Scene Description | Ranbir Kapoor vaping without warnings |
| Legal Basis | Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 |
| Action Demanded | FIR against actor, Netflix, and producers |
The complainant, Vinay Joshi from the Legal Rights Observatory, has alleged that the series promoted e-cigarettes in violation of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, which comprehensively bans the production, sale, and advertisement of electronic cigarettes in India.
The Controversial Scene That Triggered Legal Action
In the final episode titled “Picture Ka Title Hoga…”, Ranbir Kapoor appears in a cameo alongside director Karan Johar and actress Anya Singh. During this brief but impactful scene, the actor is shown casually asking for a vape, taking it, and using the e-cigarette while engaging in conversation. The scene, lasting approximately 5-7 minutes, was filmed without any on-screen health warnings or disclaimers about the dangers of vaping.
The NHRC’s concern centers on the potential influence such portrayals could have on impressionable audiences, particularly young viewers who look up to Bollywood stars as role models. The commission emphasized that showing a popular actor like Ranbir Kapoor using a banned substance amounts to encouraging illegal activity and undermining public health initiatives.
Legal Framework and Violation Claims
The controversy stems from India’s comprehensive ban on e-cigarettes implemented through the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. This legislation was enacted citing significant health risks and concerns over the appeal of such products among minors.
Key Legal Violations Alleged
| Violation Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Offense | Displaying banned e-cigarettes on screen |
| Regulatory Breach | Absence of mandatory health warnings |
| Public Health Concern | Potential influence on youth audiences |
| Content Compliance | Violation of OTT platform guidelines |
The complainant has argued that the portrayal not only violated existing laws but also contravened health advisories issued by the government regarding the depiction of smoking and tobacco-related products in films and television content.
NHRC’s Comprehensive Response
NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo has confirmed that the commission has taken serious cognizance of the matter. The authorities have been directed to register a First Information Report (FIR) against multiple parties, including Ranbir Kapoor personally, Netflix as the streaming platform, and the production companies involved in creating the content.
The commission has also issued specific directives to various government departments:
- Ministry of Information and Broadcasting: Instructed to take immediate action to prevent similar content on OTT platforms
- Mumbai Police Commissioner: Directed to investigate the supply chains of e-cigarettes and submit a detailed report
- Streaming Platforms: Urged to implement stricter content review mechanisms
The Series: A Star-Studded Affair
“The Bads of Bollywood,” created by Aryan Khan and co-created by Bilal Siddiqi and Manav Chauhan, premiered on Netflix on September 18, 2025. The seven-episode series, produced by Gauri Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment, features an ensemble cast led by Lakshya, Bobby Deol, Raghav Juyal, and Sahher Bambba.
The show has garnered significant attention not just for its bold satirical take on the Hindi film industry but also for its impressive roster of celebrity cameos. Stars including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Ranveer Singh, Karan Johar, Disha Patani, and Arjun Kapoor have made special appearances, creating what many have dubbed the “Deewangi Deewangi” moment of streaming content.
Industry and Public Reaction
The controversy has divided public opinion, with some defending artistic freedom while others supporting the NHRC’s stance on responsible content creation. The incident has reignited broader discussions about the portrayal of smoking and substance use in popular media and the responsibility of filmmakers and streaming platforms toward impressionable audiences.
Critics of the NHRC action argue that the scene was part of a satirical narrative and should be viewed in context. However, public health advocates have praised the commission’s swift response, emphasizing that celebrity influence on youth behavior cannot be underestimated.
Ranbir Kapoor’s Public Statements Under Scrutiny
The controversy has gained additional attention due to Ranbir Kapoor’s previous public statements about quitting smoking. The actor had publicly announced that he quit smoking in 2024, particularly after becoming a father to daughter Raha with wife Alia Bhatt.
In earlier interviews, Kapoor had shared: “I started smoking cigarettes, which became a very nasty habit from the age of 17 till last year, when I finally quit. When I became a father, I started feeling very unhealthy.” This contradiction between his public stance and on-screen portrayal has led to criticism from fans and health advocates alike.
Netflix and OTT Platform Accountability
The incident has placed Netflix India under regulatory scrutiny, raising questions about the platform’s content review processes and compliance with Indian laws. The NHRC has specifically called for OTT platforms to implement more stringent content guidelines to prevent the promotion of banned substances.
Industry experts suggest that this case could set a precedent for how streaming platforms handle content that depicts illegal activities, even in fictional or satirical contexts. The outcome may influence future content creation and review processes across all major OTT platforms operating in India.
Broader Implications for Content Creation
The “Bads of Bollywood” controversy highlights the evolving challenges faced by content creators in navigating creative freedom while maintaining regulatory compliance. The incident underscores the need for production houses and streaming platforms to maintain heightened awareness of legal and social responsibilities.
The case also raises important questions about the extent to which satirical content should be regulated and whether different standards should apply to different genres of entertainment. As OTT platforms continue to gain prominence in India, such incidents are likely to shape the regulatory framework governing digital content.
Looking Forward
As the NHRC awaits responses from the concerned authorities, the development has sparked industry-wide discussions about balancing creative expression with social responsibility. The outcome of this case is expected to influence how similar content is handled in the future and may lead to more stringent guidelines for depicting banned substances in entertainment media.
The controversy surrounding “The Bads of Bollywood” serves as a reminder that even in the realm of satirical entertainment, creators and platforms must carefully consider the potential impact of their content on society, particularly on younger audiences who may be influenced by celebrity behavior both on and off screen.
FAQs
What specific scene in “The Bads of Bollywood” caused the NHRC controversy?
The controversial scene appears in Episode 7 where Ranbir Kapoor is shown using an e-cigarette without any health warnings or disclaimers, violating the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019.
Who filed the complaint against “The Bads of Bollywood”?
The complaint was filed by Vinay Joshi from the Legal Rights Observatory, who alleged that the series promoted banned e-cigarettes without proper statutory warnings.
What action has the NHRC demanded in this case?
The NHRC has asked Mumbai Police to register an FIR against Ranbir Kapoor, Netflix, and the show’s producers, while also directing the I&B Ministry to prevent similar content on OTT platforms.
When did “The Bads of Bollywood” premiere on Netflix?
The series premiered on Netflix on September 18, 2025, with all seven episodes released simultaneously for binge-watching.
What is the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019?
This Indian law comprehensively bans the production, sale, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarettes, citing health risks and concerns about their appeal to minors.
