Mumbai

A complaint has been filed with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) alleging that a scene in Aryan Khan’s Netflix series, The Ba**ds of Bollywood*, shows actor Ranbir Kapoor smoking a banned e-cigarette without a statutory disclaimer. The complainant argues that this could influence young viewers and violates existing law.

Legal concerns

The NHRC has written to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s secretary, urging strict action against the actors, producers, and Netflix for “misleading youth and violating the law.” The commission also requested the Mumbai Police Commissioner to file an FIR under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. The Act prohibits the storage, use, and promotion of e-cigarettes, and penalizes individuals and companies that advertise or promote such banned products.

Public reaction

The controversial scene and FIR demand sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Fans and critics expressed mixed views, with some defending Ranbir Kapoor’s artistic freedom while others criticised the portrayal of e-cigarette use.

 

Series overview

The Ba**ds of Bollywood* is a satirical action-comedy drama created, co-written, and directed by debutant Aryan Khan. The series premiered on Netflix on September 18, 2025, and stars Lakshya Lalwani, Bobby Deol, Raghav Juyal, Sahher Bambba, and Anya Singh. It has earned praise from critics and audiences as “irreverent, intriguing, and entertaining in equal measure.”