Year Ender 2025: Most Controversial Bollywood Films That Sparked Protests and Heated Debate

New Delhi: Bollywood in 2025 wasn't just about box office numbers and star power. A clutch of films pushed buttons, drew protests, and sparked debates across India. Some ran into legal trouble. Others were pulled overseas or faced public backlash. From political dramas to historical portrayals, the year saw strong reactions from audiences, courts, and critics alike.

Here's a look at the 10 films that became the talk of the town, for reasons far beyond cinema.

What sparked controversy in 'Emergency'?

'Emergency' opened the year on a charged note. Directed by Kangana Ranaut, this movie revisited India's Emergency period of 1975. It hit theatres in January but soon drew heat from community groups and critics. Many accused it of distorting historical facts and hurting sentiments of Sikh organisations. Calls for bans and censorship battled in public forums before the film finally released amid protests. 

Why did viewers argue over 'Chhaava'?

'Chhaava', a historical drama based on the life of Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, made headlines not just for its box office success but for disagreements over its portrayal of historical figures. Several organisations in Maharashtra objected to how some scenes and characterisations appeared on screen. Filmmakers later adjusted parts of the film in response to the backlash. 

What held up 'Udaipur Files' at the censor board?

'Udaipur Files' dove into the grim 2024 Kanaiyalal murder case, a sensitive topic in society. Scheduled for a July release, it was delayed and faced 50 major cuts from the Indian censor board. The Delhi High Court even temporarily stayed its screening, citing fears about communal tension. Eventually it reached cinemas after extensive edits. 

How did 'Jaat' get into trouble?

'Jaat', starring Sunny Deol and Randeep Hooda, ran into trouble over a church scene. Members of the Christian community objected to how the sequence was portrayed, calling it offensive. The producers removed the scene amid public pressure and legal complaints. 

Why was 'Phule' controversial before release?

'Phule', a biopic on social reformers Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, was praised for the lead performances. But some Brahmin organisations claimed it presented their community negatively. The controversy grew so intense that the film's release date had to be postponed and its certification delayed. 

What debates did 'The Bengal Files' ignite?

'The Bengal Files', directed by Vivek Agnihotri, tackled the Partition-era violence of 1946. Its depiction of events and use of terms like “Hindu genocide” drew sharp criticism from many viewers and political groups, who said it leaned toward political propaganda rather than balanced storytelling. In West Bengal, its screening was temporarily blocked amid protests. 

Why wasn't 'Abir Gulaal' released in India?

'Abir Gulaal', featuring Pakistan star Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, never hit Indian screens. After the tragic Pahalgam terror attack earlier in the year, public outrage against Pakistani actors surged. The movie was released overseas but remained banned across India. 

What claims drew heat in 'The Taj Story'?

'The Taj Story' sparked debates with its depictions of the Taj Mahal's history. People in courts and on social media disputed claims made in the film, including suggestions that a Shiva temple existed beneath the monument. Critics argued that such narratives risked fuelling communal tensions.

How did 'The Ba***ds of Bollywood' land in legal trouble?

Though a web series rather than a theatrical film, 'The Ba***ds of Bollywood' earned a spot on the list for its legal battle. An IRS officer depicted in the show claimed the character harmed his reputation, taking the matter to court. Another scene involving Ranbir Kapoor’s character vaping without warning also drew criticism. 

What made 'Dhurandhar' controversial?

'Dhurandhar' was one of the year's biggest box office hits and one of its most divisive films. A high-octane spy thriller said to be inspired by the life of martyr Major Mohit Sharma, it faced accusations of promoting a political agenda and using a real soldier’s story without family consent. Some Gulf countries refused its release, citing negative portrayals.