From hard-hitting social commentary to political clashes, these 7 Bollywood films dared to be different. Now available on streaming platforms, these controversial gems will keep you glued to the screen.

Controversial Bollywood movies on OTT

New Delhi: In the bustling world of Bollywood, controversies are common, especially when it comes to movies. Every year, Bollywood releases more than 1,800 films, but not all of them are warmly received. Some movies spark laughter due to silly controversies, while others touch sensitive nerves related to religion or history. Let’s dive into the realm of the most controversial Bollywood movies available for streaming and find out where you can watch these films online!

Most controversial Bollywood movies on OTT

1. Padmaavat on OTT: Amazon Prime Video

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat, featuring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor, is an adaptation of an epic poem. The story revolves around Maharawal Ratan Singh and Rani Padmavati, renowned for her beauty. Sultan Alauddin Khilji’s obsession with her beauty leads to conflict and captures the essence of the narrative.

The film faced violent protests, prompting a title change from Padmavati to Padmaavat. Criticisms included accusations of regressive patriarchy, stereotypical portrayals of Muslim and Hindu characters, and negative depiction of Padmavati’s character. Vandalism and threats targeted the film’s creators and cast. You can watch Padmaavat on Amazon Prime Video.

2. The Kerala Story: Zee5

The Kerala Story sparked widespread debate upon its release, focusing on the controversial topic of Love Jihad. Marketed as a true story, the film follows a group of women in Kerala coerced into Islam, alleging a larger pattern of conversions and recruitments by an extremist group. The movie went on to earn Rs 303.97 crore at the worldwide box office. However, it received overwhelmingly negative reviews, with many criticising the movie for promoting Islamophobic propaganda.

3. Qissa: Prime Video

Set against the backdrop of India’s partition, Qissa delves into themes of gender identity and patriarchal norms. Umber Singh’s desperate desire for a male heir leads to complex familial dynamics, challenging societal expectations. The film stirred controversy for its unconventional narrative and exploration of taboo subjects.

4. Tahaan – A Boy With a Grenade: Prime Video

Tahaan tells the story of a young boy embarking on a perilous journey to retrieve his beloved pet. However, his innocence leads him into a dangerous situation involving a grenade, questioning morality and innocence in conflict zones. The film’s controversial elements raise poignant questions about the impact of war on innocence.

5. Hamid: Netflix

Adapted from a play Phone No 789, the film Hamid follows a young boy’s quest to connect with God after a personal loss. Set in Kashmir, the film touches on sensitive sentiments, highlighting the region’s complexities and the human toll of conflict.

6. Parzania- Heaven & Hell on Earth: Disney+ Hotstar

Parzania is based on a true story, shedding light on the Gujarat riots through the lens of a missing child’s family. The film’s portrayal of real-life events faced challenges in release, particularly in Gujarat, due to its sensitive subject matter.

7. The Kashmir Files: Zee5