Aryan Khan, son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, has received critical acclaim for his directorial debut, The Bad**ds of Bollywood, now streaming on Netflix. The satirical comedy on Bollywood celebrities has been praised for its fresh storytelling and sharp humour, establishing Aryan Khan as a successful new filmmaker.
However, a controversy has emerged over a scene in the series showing actor Ranbir Kapoor using an e-cigarette without any warning or disclaimer. A complaint filed with the National Human Rights Commission has highlighted that the scene violates the Prohibition of E-Cigarettes Act, 2019. The complainant urged Mumbai police to register a case against Ranbir Kapoor, the show’s producers, and Netflix.
The complaint expressed concerns that such content could encourage the unsafe use of e-cigarettes among young people, posing serious public health risks. It argued that the portrayal of smoking in entertainment without proper caution promotes illegal activity and sets a bad example for the youth. The complainant requested an immediate ban on the content and called for appropriate action to prevent the spread of irresponsible messaging.
Following the complaint, the Commission issued a notice to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The Mumbai Police Commissioner has been asked to investigate the e-cigarette manufacturers, importers, and related activities, and submit a report within two weeks.
While the dangers of e-cigarettes are now under scrutiny, public concern continues over other health risks that receive less regulation. For example, cola and other sugary drinks are widely sold despite known risks, such as contamination or overuse of pesticides in ingredients. Citizens have called on the government to take stricter measures to safeguard public health and ensure responsible marketing of potentially harmful products.
The incident highlights the balance filmmakers must maintain between creative expression and social responsibility. While The Bad**ds of Bollywood has been widely praised, the e-cigarette controversy reminds the industry and audiences of the broader ethical implications of content aimed at young viewers.
