The year 2025 proved to be a reminder that public visibility comes with heightened scrutiny. With social media amplifying every remark and gesture, several celebrities found themselves at the centre of controversies that quickly spiralled into nationwide debates. From cultural sensitivity to language pride and offensive humour, here is a look at some of the prominent figures who faced backlash this year and the reasons behind the outrage.
Ranveer Singh: Kantara controversy
Ranveer Singh sparked criticism after a video from the International Film Festival of India went viral, showing him mimicking a scene from the Kannada film Kantara: Chapter 1. Many viewers felt the act was culturally insensitive and disrespectful to regional traditions. Following the backlash, Ranveer issued a public apology, stating that no offence was intended and acknowledging the emotional connection audiences have with the film.
Ranveer Allahbadia: ‘India’s Got Latent’ row
Podcaster and influencer Ranveer Allahbadia, popularly known as BeerBiceps, faced intense criticism after a clip from the show India’s Got Latent showed him asking a contestant an inappropriate question. The remark triggered outrage, FIRs and debates around influencer responsibility and content moderation. Although Allahbadia apologised and admitted it was a lapse in judgment, the controversy followed him for months.
Samay Raina: Comedy under fire
Comedian Samay Raina was another major figure embroiled in controversy linked to India’s Got Latent. Jokes and comments made on the show were flagged as offensive, leading to legal scrutiny, episode takedowns and cancellation of live shows. The incident reignited discussions on the limits of comedy and accountability in digital content.
Apoorva Mukhija: Social media backlash
Influencer Apoorva Mukhija, known as The Rebel Kid, faced online outrage after controversial remarks on the same show. Misinterpretations, trolling and harsh criticism followed, forcing her to address the backlash publicly. While she eventually regained part of her audience, the episode highlighted how quickly online opinion can turn hostile.
Mrunal Thakur: Body-shaming criticism
Actor Mrunal Thakur came under fire when an old interview clip resurfaced in which she commented on Bipasha Basu’s physique. The remarks were widely criticised as body-shaming. Mrunal later apologised, stating that she was young at the time and had since grown in her understanding. Bipasha Basu responded with a message promoting body positivity and mutual respect among women.
Diljit Dosanjh: Sardaar Ji 3 casting controversy
Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh faced boycott calls after announcing Pakistani actor Hania Aamir as part of Sardaar Ji 3, amid strained India–Pakistan relations. Critics accused him of insensitivity, leading to protests and the film’s overseas-only release. Dosanjh defended the collaboration, stating that the project was planned well before political tensions escalated.
Kamal Haasan: Language remarks spark outrage
Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan triggered one of the year’s biggest controversies after stating that Kannada originated from Tamil during a promotional event. The remark angered pro-Kannada groups, resulting in protests, political criticism and demands for an apology. The incident underscored the sensitivity surrounding linguistic identity in India.
Together, these incidents reflect how 2025 became a year where celebrity influence, cultural awareness and accountability were constantly tested in the digital public square.