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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
Kumkum Bhagya actor Sanchita Ugale dies by suicide near Mumbai at 22
Television actor Sanchita Ugale, known for Kumkum Bhagya and Wagle Ki Duniya, died by suicide at her residence near Mumbai. Police have launched an investigation.
Television actor Sanchita Ugale, known for her appearances in Kumkum Bhagya, Wagle Ki Duniya and Dilwali Dulha Le Jayegi, died by suicide at her residence in Nalasopara East near Mumbai on June 14. She was 22.
According to police officials, the incident took place at her home in Achole village, Nalasopara East. Authorities said Ugale had locked herself inside her bedroom and was later found hanging from a ceiling fan. Family members and local residents rushed her to a hospital, where doctors declared her dead.
Police have registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. Officials said inquiries are underway and the exact reason behind the incident has not yet been established.
Career across television, OTT and films
Ugale had built a growing presence in the entertainment industry through television, streaming projects and films. Apart from Kumkum Bhagya and Wagle Ki Duniya, she played a lead role in Dilwali Dulha Le Jayegi. She also appeared in OTT projects such as Crime Aaj Kal and Silence 2.
The actor was also associated with the film Chhaava, which contributed to her growing recognition among audiences.
Last social media post draws attention
Following news of her death, social media users shared and commented on Ugale’s final Instagram post, which had been uploaded hours before the incident. The post showed the actor in traditional attire lip-syncing to a classic Bollywood song. Fans expressed shock and grief after learning of her death.
Ram Charan’s Peddi opens to mixed reviews despite strong performances and music
Peddi has received mixed reviews, with Ram Charan’s performance and AR Rahman’s music earning praise while criticism has focused on the film’s screenplay and writing.
Ram Charan’s much-awaited Telugu sports drama Peddi hit theatres on June 4 and has generated significant discussion among critics and audiences. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, the film marks Charan’s return to the big screen in a rural sports-based story that combines action, emotion and village politics.
Early reviews have highlighted Ram Charan’s committed performance as one of the film’s strongest assets. Critics have particularly appreciated his transformation and screen presence, with many describing the role as one that allows the actor to showcase both emotional depth and mass appeal.
Another aspect receiving widespread praise is the music and background score composed by A. R. Rahman. Several reviewers and audience members have pointed to the soundtrack and score as key elements that elevate important moments throughout the film.
However, reviews have been more divided on the film’s writing. Critics have argued that while the film contains emotionally effective sequences and well-mounted sports moments, the screenplay often follows familiar genre conventions and lacks the consistency needed to fully realise its ambitions.
The film also stars Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu and Boman Irani in important roles. Audience reactions on social media have generally described the film as an entertaining watch despite its shortcomings, with praise directed at the performances and technical departments.
Despite the mixed critical response, Peddi has opened strongly at the box office, supported by robust advance bookings and enthusiastic fan celebrations across Telugu-speaking regions.
Dhurandhar raw and uncut version set for digital premiere on two major streaming platforms
In a major surprise for action film fans, the raw and uncut version of Dhurandhar is launching tomorrow across both Netflix India and JioHotstar with uncensored footage and multiple audio tracks.
Indian cinema enthusiasts are in for an unexpected treat as the highly anticipated unfiltered version of the blockbuster film Dhurandhar is officially heading to digital platforms. In a surprising double-platform strategy, the raw and uncut cut of the action-packed movie is scheduled to begin streaming on both Netflix India and JioHotstar.
The sudden announcement from the streaming platforms has sparked significant buzz across social media. While much of the recent digital speculation has centered around the streaming schedule for the sequel, media updates have confirmed that this specific raw release applies to the franchise’s first installment. Starting tomorrow, viewers in India will be able to watch the unfiltered version of the movie in multiple regional languages, including Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil, complete with intense gore sequences and raw dialogues that were previously trimmed.
Dual-platform digital release brings uncensored action
The announcement has cleared up initial confusion among fans who were anticipating updates regarding the franchise. While international audiences have seen varied streaming distributions for the franchise, viewers within India will uniquely get access to the first film’s “undekha” (unseen) cut simultaneously on two separate streaming applications.
The standard digital premiere for the second installment, Dhurandhar 2, remains locked for June 4, 2026, on JioHotstar and will mirror the standard censored cut that was showcased during its theatrical run. However, for fans seeking an uncompromising, high-octane cinematic experience, the original film’s extended, raw edition arrives online tomorrow on both competing streaming services.
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