Bollywood is one of the biggest film industries in the world, and with its massive reach, it has produced many controversial movies that have become the talk of the town. From dealing with taboo subjects to portraying sensitive issues,
Bollywood has always pushed the envelope when it comes to storytelling. In this article, we will take a look at some of the top controversial movies that Bollywood has produced.
1. Padmaavat
Released in 2018, Padmaavat was one of the most controversial movies to hit the screens in recent times. The movie was based on the story of Queen Padmavati and the siege of her kingdom by the Sultan of Delhi, Alauddin Khilji.
The movie sparked controversy due to its portrayal of Rajput culture and traditions, with several Rajput groups protesting against the movie's release. Despite facing several hurdles, the movie was a massive success at the box office, earning over 500 crores worldwide.
2. Fire
Released in 1996, Fire was one of the first Indian movies to deal with the subject of homosexuality. The movie follows the story of two women, Radha and Sita, who fall in love with each other.
The movie sparked controversy due to its bold portrayal of homosexuality, with several conservative groups protesting against the movie's release. Despite facing backlash, the movie was critically acclaimed and is now considered a cult classic.
3. Aandhi
Released in 1975, Aandhi was a political drama that was based on the life of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The movie was controversial as it was released during the Emergency period in India, a time when freedom of speech was curtailed.
The movie was banned by the government for its portrayal of the ruling party, and it was only released after the Emergency was lifted.
4. Bandit Queen
Released in 1994, Bandit Queen was a biographical film based on the life of Phoolan Devi, a bandit who later became a politician. The movie was controversial due to its graphic portrayal of rape and violence, with several groups protesting against the movie's release.
Despite facing backlash, the movie was critically acclaimed and is now considered a landmark movie in Indian cinema.
5. PK
Released in 2014, PK was a satirical comedy-drama that dealt with the subject of religion. The movie follows the story of an alien who lands on earth and questions the various religious practices followed by humans.
The movie sparked controversy due to its portrayal of Hinduism, with several groups protesting against the movie's release. Despite facing backlash, the movie was a massive success at the box office, earning over 800 crores worldwide.
6. Udta Punjab
Released in 2016, Udta Punjab was a crime-thriller that dealt with the subject of drug abuse in the state of Punjab. The movie was controversial as it depicted the drug problem prevalent in the state, with several politicians and leaders protesting against the movie's release. Despite facing several hurdles, the movie was critically acclaimed and was a box office success.
7. My Name Is Khan
Released in 2010, My Name Is Khan was a drama film that dealt with the subject of Islamophobia in the United States. The movie follows the story of a Muslim man who faces discrimination and prejudice after the 9/11 attacks.
The movie sparked controversy due to its portrayal of Muslims, with several groups protesting against the movie's release. Despite facing backlash, the movie was a critical and commercial success.
8. Kabir Singh
Released in 2019, Kabir Singh was a romantic drama that was a remake of the Telugu movie Arjun Reddy. The movie was controversial due to its portrayal of toxic masculinity, with several groups protesting against the movie's release.
The movie follows the story of a medical student who becomes an alcoholic and abusive after the love of his life marries someone else. Despite facing backlash, the movie was a massive success at the box office, earning over 370 crores worldwide.
9. Lipstick Under My Burkha
Released in 2016, Lipstick Under My Burkha was a black comedy that dealt with the subject of female sexuality. The movie follows the story of four women who rebel against their conservative families and society and explore their desires and sexuality.
The movie was controversial due to its bold portrayal of female sexuality, with several groups protesting against the movie's release. Despite facing backlash, the movie was critically acclaimed and went on to win several awards at international film festivals.
10. Black Friday
Released in 2004, Black Friday was a crime-drama that was based on the 1993 Bombay bombings. The movie was controversial as it depicted the real-life events of the bombings and its aftermath.
The movie was banned by the government for several years, but after a long legal battle, it was released in 2007. Despite facing several hurdles, the movie was critically acclaimed and is now considered a cult classic.
In conclusion, Bollywood has produced several controversial movies over the years, with each movie pushing the boundaries of storytelling and sparking discussions and debates.
Despite facing several hurdles and protests, these movies have gone on to become critically acclaimed and commercially successful, proving that bold and thought-provoking cinema has a place in Indian cinema. As audiences, we can only hope that Bollywood continues to push the envelope and produce movies that challenge our perspectives and make us think.