The year 2025 has been a rollercoaster for the Indian entertainment and sports world, marked by shocking incidents, viral controversies, and major legal battles. As the year draws to a close, we look back at the events that dominated headlines, sparked nationwide debates, and left fans both worried and talking.
Heroic Acts and Viral Missteps
One of the most alarming incidents of the year involved Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan. On January 16, 2025, a burglar entered his Bandra home and threatened his son, Jeh. In a brave act to protect his child, Saif intervened, leading to a physical altercation during which he was stabbed six times. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital and underwent surgery.
Reflecting on his narrow escape, Saif later told Delhi Times that it was a “miracle” he survived, noting the assailant narrowly missed critical arteries in his neck. He has since recovered and resumed work on Priyadarshan’s film ‘Haiwaan’.
In the world of cricket, Virat Kohli found himself in an unexpected social media storm. Fans spotted his ‘like’ on a picture of young actor Avneet Kaur, leading to widespread speculation and memes that also dragged his wife, Anushka Sharma, into the fray. Kohli quickly clarified on Instagram Stories, attributing it to an algorithmic mistake while clearing his feed. Avneet Kaur later responded light-heartedly at an event, saying, “Milta rahe pyaar, bas.”
Film Exits, Casting Clashes, and Legal Feuds
Deepika Padukone made headlines with her sudden exits from two major projects. She first left Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s ‘Spirit,’ starring Prabhas, and was replaced by Triptii Dimri. Shortly after, she also exited the sequel to the blockbuster ‘Kalki 2898 AD.’ The makers cited an inability to “find a partnership” despite their long journey. Reports speculated her demands included an eight-hour work shift and pay parity with the male lead, which Deepika addressed in an interview, standing firm on her stance.
In another film-related controversy, Diljit Dosanjh released ‘Sardaarji 3’ starring Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, defying the ban by the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) on Pakistani artists in India. Consequently, the film was released worldwide except in India.
Fans of the ‘Hera Pheri’ franchise had a scare when reports suggested Paresh Rawal had quit ‘Hera Pheri 3’ due to creative differences with Akshay Kumar. However, Rawal later confirmed the issues were resolved, emphasizing the team’s responsibility to deliver a worthy film to the audience.
Public Backlash and High-Stakes Inheritance Dispute
Ranveer Singh faced criticism after a video from IFFI Goa showed him mimicking the sacred Daiva scene from the hit film ‘Kantara.’ While he intended to praise actor-director Rishab Shetty, the enactment offended many. Singh promptly apologized on Instagram, expressing deep respect for all cultures and traditions.
Beyond the glitz, a significant legal battle emerged following the death of businessman Sunjay Kapur on June 12, 2025, in London. The chairman of Sona Comstar and ex-husband of Karisma Kapoor left behind a massive estate worth Rs 30,000 crore. A dispute over inheritance rights and asset access has ensued between his children from his marriage to Karisma—Samaira and Kiaan—and his wife, Priya Sachdev Kapur. The case remains subjudice.
From acts of real-life bravery to social media faux pas and behind-the-scenes drama, 2025 proved that the worlds of celebrity and sport are never short of stories that captivate and controversy that consumes public discourse.
