Yearender 2022: Top 10 newsmakers from Bollywood, in the buff, in the wrong bikini and against boycott calls
As 2022 draws to a close, here’s a list of the top 10 celebrities who made headlines and the world, internet and social media included, went berserk after them.
Bollywood buffs know 2022 was a disaster for the Hindi film industry, especially at the box office. Unfortunately, nearly each film release was followed by a call for boycotting it.
But it was not only the boycott or cancel culture that resulted in a miserly year for Bollywood. Several A-listers drew controversy through their personal and professional choices that were counterproductive and became the talk of almost every household. And who doesn’t love controversy and that too about cinema?
As 2022 draws to a close, here’s a list of the top 10 celebrities who made headlines and the world, internet and social media included, went berserk after them.
Ranveer Singh
The antics of the Bollywood actor turned into a national issue when he posed naked on a carpet for PAPER Magazine and paid tribute to iconic US actor Burt Reynolds. Singh, who is known for his freakish sense of fashion, was soon slapped with police complaints and FIRs.
The internet-breaking photoshoot, on one hand, garnered plaudits for Deepika Padukone for her approving her husband’s bold move, on the other hand, it was deemed objectionable by the conservative.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CgUQICThYn4/?hl=en
A section of social media called for a ban on Ranveer Singh for tarnishing Indian culture and promoting vulgarity. He was summoned by the Mumbai Police as part of their investigation into the nudity and obscenity case filed against him. Women’s rights activist Vedika Chaube lodged a complaint of obscenity and an NGO run by Shyam Mangaram Foundation filed a complaint on behalf of concerned parents who thought Singh could influence the country’s youth. She was on a live TV debate saying, “We can see his bum.”
Singh was booked under Indian Penal Code Sections 292, 293, 509 and the IT Act, pertaining to the sale of obscene books, objects to young people, words, gestures or acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman and other related charges based on the plea by the NGO and Chaube.
Uorfi Javed
The social media sensation, who got Ranveer Singh’s pat and was tagged as the fashion icon on national television, became Uorfi Javed by ‘accident’. Known for her sometimes bizarre and mostly bold fashion choices, the self-made TV actor is a household name now. From creating an outfit with just two mobile phones and cables to making an entire outfit using bandages, Javed has done it all.
But along with overnight fame came trolls and multiple FIRs against her for committing illegal and obscene acts on social media and even in public.
https://www.instagram.com/p/ClF-2j9rx5l/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmlTgFmBmyO/
Uorfi Javed also had a bout of words with pulp author Chetan Bhagat, who, at a literature fest, blamed her for distracting boys. Despite all this, the social media star ended up working with Netflix India and appeared in Netflix Playback 2022 in style.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmYHi0GtB1i/
Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt
Media outlets and internet users went bananas over this Bollywood couple. Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt received love for their minimalistic wedding that took place on Kapoor’s balcony.
In the presence of close family members and friends, their ceremony was one of the most aesthetic weddings of the year. Dressed in an off-white Sabyasachi saree and minimal makeup, Bhatt carved a niche as the chic-est bride and Ranbir looked ethereal in an ivory sherwani. From beauty influencers recreating their wedding looks to stores selling their wedding-inspired bridal sets, Alia-Ranbir marriage touched nearly everyone’s lives.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CcVXto2sydQ/
Apart from their wedding, their film Brahmastra made all kinds of headlines. Ayan Mukerji’s directorial marked their first film together and became a blockbuster. The ‘storiyan’ in Kesariya may be elaichi in your Biryani, but it became one of the most streamed Hindi songs of the year.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CgGngZdA49c/
Prior to the film’s release, Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor announced their pregnancy, which also became chai-time gossip. From their wedding to film release to the baby’s birth, they were one Bollywood couple who never left the spotlight in 2022.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CfS-_HvMhQ8/
Vivek Agnihotri
The Bollywood filmmaker was applauded in the country for his film, The Kashmir Files. Starring Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi, Mithun Chakraborty, and others in prominent roles, the film is based on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Kashmir Valley in the early 1990s.
On several occasions, The Kashmir Files and Vivek Agnihotri were the topic of discussion. Though the film triggered communal debates on social media, it became one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of 2022 and Vivek Agnihotri, who earlier directed films like front-bencher favourite Hate Story and Zid, became one of the most-talked-about filmmakers.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmQl1ZPSgCk/
Agnihotri was also the infamous toast at the International Film Festival of India 2022 in Goa. Israeli filmmaker Nadav Lapid, the head of the jury, called The Kashmir Files propaganda and a vulgar film which should not have been screened at such a prestigious film festival.
From getting Y-category security to receiving plaudits from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vivek Agnihotri’s stock rose like the Phoenix in 2022.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmvNQ1voO1s/
Leena Manimekalai
The Canada-based filmmaker sparked a row after she shared the poster of her documentary Kaali. The poster showed a woman dressed as Goddess Kaali smoking a cigarette, holding a trident in one hand and the LGBTQ flag in the other.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CfgmhC9uLU5/
The Indian High Commission in Canada pushed the Toronto-based Aga Khan Museum to withdraw the “disrespectful depiction of Hindu Gods.” An FIR was filed against the filmmaker by the Delhi Police’s IFSO unit and she was booked under Sections 153A, and 295A and several other cases were filed in Uttar Pradesh.
And how can Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra not condemn someone who attempts to hurt Hindu sentiments? Mishra announced he would impose a ban on the film Kaali as it is an insult to Goddess Kaali.
Enraged social media users accused Leena Manimekalai of hurting religious sentiments and demanded her arrest.
Manimekalai reacted to the police complaints and trolling and said she would always amplify the voices of those who speak without fear. She also clarified and said the film’s storyline revolves around a day when Goddess Kaali roams the streets of Toronto.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cf-LN-olAj9/
Akshay Kumar
2022 was not merry for the ‘Khiladi’ as he gave back-to-back flop films. From Samrat Prithviraj to Ram Setu, the actor’s films were in the news but for their monotonous script and poor direction.
Apart from his films, the actor made headlines after he was featured in a Vimal Pan Masala ad along with Ajay Devgn and Shah Rukh Khan. Kumar, who had earlier advocated against smoking and drinking, irked his fans by promoting gutka which is frowned upon in the country.
Following the backlash on social media, he decided to withdraw his contract with Vimal and donate the payment received for the advertisement for a social cause.
Mahaan Desh Bhakt Star #AkshayKumar said this few years ago when asked about Stars doing Gutka , Pan masala Ad .. Today the same man has joined #Vimal Universe pic.twitter.com/Tf0QRPcG0a
Among his five releases this year were Samrat Prithviraj, Cuttputlli, Bachchhan Paandey, Raksha Bandhan, and Ram Setu. All these landed in trouble and failed at the box office except for Cuttputlli which marked Kumar’s OTT debut. While Samrat Prithviraj received backlash over its title, Ram Setu was criticised for falsely portraying the Ram Setu issue.
The suit for compensation has been finalised by my associate Satya Sabharwal Adv. I am suing Akshay Kumar, actor & Karma Media for damages cause by falsification in portrayal of the Ram Setu issue in their film for release.
The one Bollywood star who took everyone by surprise this year was Sushmita Sen. The former Miss Universe and her relationship with Lalit Modi gave internet junkies a perfect chance to gossip. Memes rained on social media after the IPL founder changed his Instagram bio and shared photos with the actor.
Just back in london after a whirling global tour #maldives # sardinia with the families – not to mention my #better looking partner @sushmitasen47 – a new beginning a new life finally. Over the moon. 🥰😘😍😍🥰💕💞💖💘💓. In love does not mean marriage YET. BUT ONE THAT For sure pic.twitter.com/WL8Hab3P6V
Their relationship was also scrutinised because Sen broke up with her longtime, and younger, boyfriend Rohman Shawl in December 2021. And a section of social media users tagged Sen a gold digger. Typical!
Trolls didn’t stop and Sen spoke up for herself with a befitting reply to shush people who called her a gold digger with a beautiful Instagram post.
Well, it’s nothing new folks. Bollywood is synonymous with gossip that too of relationships and affairs.
Aamir Khan
The Bollywood actor returned to the silver screen after four years with Laal Singh Chaddha, co-starring Kareena Kapoor Khan. The Hindi remake of the Oscar-winning Forrest Gump, starring Tom Hanks and Robin Wright, irked cinema lovers who questioned the makers’ audacity to ruin such an iconic film.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CeJcuETpQSv/
With a call for a boycott of the film, an old video of Kareena Kapoor’s ‘arrogancy’ during an interview taken a decade ago went viral again that added fuel to the boycott calls.
A Delhi lawyer filed a complaint against Aamir Khan, Paramount Pictures, and several others to the Delhi Police commissioner for allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments and disrespecting the Indian Army. The complainant alleged that there was objectionable content in the film and sought registration of an FIR under Sections 153, 153A, 298 and 505 of the IPC against Khan, director Advait Chandan and Paramount Pictures.
But this was just the tip of the iceberg. Laal Singh Chaddha failed at the box office. It took the makers more than 10 years to make the film and it turned out to be a disaster. The film’s music was appreciated.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CfDj4xII6ob/
Nora Fatehi
The Moroccan actor-dancer is shining in Bollywood. Nora Fatehi’s nationality may not be Indian but she held the tricolour with the utmost pride at the FIFA World Cup 2022. She joined the ranks of Shakira and Jennifer Lopez and became the first Bollywood star to perform and represent India and South East Asia on the FIFA World Stage.
Besides, the actor-dancer also made headlines as she judged the popular dance reality show on TV, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 10. It was quite a moment for Fatehi’s fans as she was once a contestant on the show.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CivAeHrhRip/
Deepika Padukone
This year, Deepika Padukone’s schedule was jam-packed with Cannes, collaborations with luxury brands, launching her skin brand, and rooting for the release of Pathaan.
The global star became a vision for millions of her fans as she walked the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival 2022. She became one of the few Indian actors to be part of the festival jury. She attended panel discussions, after-parties, and a lot more.
And when it came to serving looks, she definitely didn’t disappoint her fans. One of her looks at Cannes also triggered some hullabaloo and meme fests on social media.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cdri7z7qBGr/
Following her successful stint at Festival De Cannes, she was announced as the global ambassador for Louis Vuitton and the ambassador for Cartier. Padukone’s association with these two luxury brands undoubtedly added a feather to her sexy cap.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CdfxxofJ1vU/
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd1xQbKqwLi/
In November 2022, Padukone started her journey as an entrepreneur and launched a skincare and wellness brand, 82°E with just two products. While the brand received flak over its pricing, yes pretty expensive, Padukone made it clear that she wants to cater to an elite clients and make her brand luxe.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CllcdrwpWT4/
Cut to December 2022, the actor grabbed the world by its eyeballs with her steamy appearance in the Pathaan song, Besharam Rang. Her orange bikini, which looked like saffron for some people, in the song became a national issue.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmDu2kKuVx8/
From outfits to hook steps, the song is under scrutiny for many reasons. Several police complaints were filed against both Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan for the choice of outfits’ colours and dance steps in Besharam Rang. Following the backlash, the Central Board of Film Certification advised the makers to make changes to the film, including songs.
Prasoon Joshi, Chairperson, CBFC, said, “Just to put all queries around the film Pathaan at rest, the film recently reached the CBFC examination committee for certification. The film went through the due examining process as per the CBFC guidelines. The committee has guided the makers to implement the advised changes in the film including the songs and submit the revised version prior to theatrical release.”
In the backdrop of the Besharam Rang row, Padukone made India proud as she became the first Bollywood star to unveil the FIFA World Cup trophy at Qatar 2022. Styled by Louis Vuitton, she carried grace at the international event and hit headlines like never before. Yes, she was covered head to foot.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CmVlAl8KAmq/
The hopes from Pathaan are many but we will need to wait for 2023 to find out how many cuts and snips it will take before its release!
Sky Force social media review: Audiences say Akshay Kumar’s movie average
Supporters of Sky Force enthusiastically celebrate its impressive technical achievements. The cinematography is frequently lauded for its breathtaking visuals, effectively capturing the tension and drama inherent in the storyline.
Akshay Kumar and Veer Pahariya’s latest action drama, Sky Force, made its theatrical debut on January 24th, 2025, igniting a firestorm of diverse opinions across social media platforms. The film, inspired by true events surrounding one of the most intense airstrikes between India and Pakistan, has become a battleground of contrasting viewpoints, leaving audiences sharply divided.
While some hail it as a cinematic triumph, others dismiss it as yet another underwhelming offering from the Bollywood powerhouse, Akshay Kumar. This stark dichotomy underscores the film’s failure to achieve a consensus among viewers, leaving its overall impact uncertain.
Supporters of Sky Force enthusiastically celebrate its impressive technical achievements. The cinematography is frequently lauded for its breathtaking visuals, effectively capturing the tension and drama inherent in the storyline.
The background score, too, receives considerable praise for its ability to amplify the emotional impact of key scenes, enriching the overall viewing experience. The sharp screenplay is also commended for its ability to maintain a compelling narrative throughout the film’s runtime.
Conversely, the film’s detractors point to a plethora of shortcomings. Many critics express disappointment with Akshay Kumar’s performance, suggesting a lack of dedication to the role and a reliance on a teleprompter. The storyline itself is frequently criticized for its predictable plot points and underdeveloped characters, failing to resonate with many viewers.
The film’s pacing also comes under fire, with some claiming a disjointed narrative structure that hinders the overall viewing experience. The CGI, a crucial component in any aerial action film, is deemed underwhelming by many, further diminishing the film’s appeal. Comparisons to other recent action films, notably Fighter, are frequently made, often to Sky Force’s detriment.
Despite these criticisms, Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of his character garners some positive feedback, with certain viewers praising his performance as the film’s saving grace. However, even this praise is tempered by the overall criticisms levied against the movie’s narrative and technical aspects.
In essence, Sky Force remains a deeply divisive film, failing to garner widespread critical acclaim. While its technical achievements are undeniable, the film’s flaws in terms of storyline, character development, and certain aspects of the acting performance prevent it from reaching its full potential.
The film’s ultimate success will hinge on whether its box office performance can overcome the negative feedback and divided audience response. Only time will tell whether Sky Force will achieve a lasting impact.
In Ashwni Dhir’s latest directorial venture, Hisaab Barabar, the central theme revolves around a common man taking on an unjust system—an age-old concept that rarely fails to resonate with audiences. However, despite R Madhavan’s earnest portrayal of the protagonist, the film struggles to deliver a compelling narrative, falling short of its potential.
At the core of Hisaab Barabar is Radhe Mohan Sharma, an Indian Railways ticket examiner played by Madhavan. Sharma, a diligent single father, has an obsessive passion for numbers, a trait that propels him into a battle against a corrupt private bank. When he discovers a minor discrepancy of 27 rupees and 50 paise missing from his account, his seemingly simple quest for an explanation unravels into a larger conflict with Mickey Mehta (Neil Nitin Mukesh), the unscrupulous owner of the bank.
The film’s premise—an ordinary man’s war against the system—holds promise. However, the execution fails to capitalize on this potential. The narrative unfolds along predictably conventional lines, lacking the depth or unpredictability needed to keep viewers engaged. Sharma’s relentless pursuit of justice feels formulaic, with few surprises in store for the audience.
The film drifts between moments of mild humor and heavy-handed seriousness, ultimately struggling to find a rhythm that resonates. Radhe Mohan’s character, while driven by a strong moral compass, never evolves beyond his defining trait of being a number cruncher. As a result, despite Madhavan’s best efforts, the character lacks emotional depth, making it difficult for viewers to fully invest in his journey.
Kirti Kulhari, who plays a key role as a passenger with a connection to Sharma’s past, faces a similar issue. Although her character seems poised to offer emotional or narrative weight, she too remains underdeveloped. Her motivations and character arc are not explored sufficiently, leaving her character largely reactive to the actions of the lead. Kulhari’s performance, however, remains solid despite the constraints of the role.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, Neil Nitin Mukesh stands out as the greedy and manipulative bank owner, Mickey Mehta. His portrayal is flamboyant, and while the character’s exaggerated traits occasionally make him a more engaging figure, the lack of real conflict or challenge between him and Sharma detracts from the stakes of the story.
The film’s attempt at social commentary—highlighting the exploitation of middle-class bank customers—is timely, but the execution falls flat. Hisaab Barabar struggles to balance its critique of corruption with its dramatic elements, leading to a somewhat disjointed viewing experience. Despite a few relatable moments and its intentions to provoke thought, the film ultimately lacks the punch required to leave a lasting impact.
The central message, which advocates for the power of patience and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds, is clear. However, it is delivered with such predictability that it fails to inspire or engage. The film does not venture beyond its safe, established formula of the David versus Goliath struggle, which leaves little room for the audience to feel any real stakes or tension.
Ultimately, Hisaab Barabar is a missed opportunity. While the film’s premise and Madhavan’s performance offer glimpses of what could have been, its lack of narrative depth, underdeveloped characters, and uneven execution prevent it from making any significant impact. What starts as a promising drama about an ordinary man against a corrupt system ends up as a forgettable, by-the-numbers affair.
As the weekend draws near, OTT platforms are serving up an exciting variety of new content to keep you entertained. With genres ranging from lighthearted romantic comedies to gripping thrillers, January 24, 2025, promises to offer something for everyone. Here’s a look at five highly anticipated releases to stream this Friday:
1. Sivarapalli – Amazon Prime Video
Sivarapalli – Amazon Prime Video
Release Date: January 24, 2025 Fans of the hit show Panchayat are in for a treat with Sivarapalli, a Telugu remake of the much-loved series. Set in the rural village of Sivarapalli in Telangana, the show follows an engineering graduate who is reluctantly thrust into the role of Panchayat Secretary. The series promises to offer a heartwarming and humorous look at rural life in India. With its relatable characters and small-town charm, Sivarapalli will appeal to fans of the original while also attracting new viewers. Stream it on Amazon Prime Video starting this Friday.
2. Sweet Dreams – Disney+ Hotstar
Sweet Dreams – Disney+ Hotstar
Release Date: January 24, 2025 This romantic dramedy features Mithila Palkar and Amol Parashar as Kenny and Dia, two people who embark on an unconventional journey to find their dream partners—literally. When both of them dream about meeting someone, they set out to find these mysterious figures in real life. The quirky premise and charming performances make Sweet Dreams an ideal weekend watch for those in the mood for something lighthearted yet intriguing. Available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.
3. The Sand Castle – Netflix
The Sand Castle – Netflix
Release Date: January 24, 2025 In this mystery thriller, a family of four finds themselves stranded on a deserted island where survival becomes a battle. Tensions rise as long-buried secrets come to light, threatening to tear the family apart. Directed by Matty Brown, The Sand Castle promises a gripping, edge-of-your-seat experience with its mix of mystery, suspense, and drama. With an IMDb rating of 7.9, this thriller is one not to miss. Catch it on Netflix this Friday.
4. Hisaab Barabar – Zee5
Hisaab Barabar – Zee5
Release Date: January 24, 2025 Hisaab Barabar is a satirical drama that delves into corruption and the quest for justice. The film follows Radhe Mohan Sharma, a railway ticket inspector who uncovers a massive financial scam after discovering discrepancies in his own bank account. Starring R Madhavan and Neil Nitin Mukesh, this social drama combines suspense with humor, making it an intriguing watch. With a strong storyline and sharp social commentary, Hisaab Barabar is now streaming on Zee5.
Release Date: January 24, 2025 This inspiring drama tells the story of Awali, a housewife who unexpectedly becomes a Sarpanch, leading her village towards progressive change. The series touches on themes of women’s empowerment, as Awali challenges traditional norms and works towards social improvement. The show’s focus on overcoming societal barriers makes it a powerful narrative about hope, determination, and the transformative role of women in shaping society. Stream it now on Ultra Jhakaas.
The OTT platforms this weekend bring an exciting mix of genres, from the emotional depth of Sivarapalli to the mystery and tension of The Sand Castle. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, drama, or suspense, January 24 has something for everyone. Be sure to mark your calendars and catch these releases as they drop this Friday.
APN News is today the most watched and the most credible and respected news channel in India. APN has been at the forefront of every single news revolution. The channel is being recognized for its in-depth, analytical reportage and hard hitting discussions on burning issues; without any bias or vested interests.
Entertainment23 hours ago
India News21 hours ago
Entertainment21 hours ago
