E-Cigarette Scene in Netflix India Series: Government Seeks Action Taken Report

Key Points

• Focus of the complaint: A social activist alleges the series shows actor Ranbir Kapoor using an e-cigarette without a disclaimer, potentially misleading youth.
• Regulatory move: The NHRC has written to the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Mumbai Police requesting an ATR; multiple media outlets say authorities have been asked to take enforcement action.
• Legal background: The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 bans production, sale, and advertising of e-cigarettes nationwide and states its public-health purpose.
• Series details: Directed by Aryan Khan, the series debuted on September 18, 2025 on Netflix, featuring a large ensemble cast with several cameos.
• Responses: As of publication, mainstream media had not reported any public response from Netflix or Ranbir Kapoor.

2Firsts, September 22, 2025 — In response to an e-cigarette-use scene in Netflix’s The Ba*ds of Bollywood, India’s NHRC has issued notices to the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Mumbai Police requesting an Action Taken Report (ATR). Reports indicate the scene allegedly lacks statutory warnings and may violate India’s Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, potentially setting a poor example for young viewers.

According to the complaint, the footage is seen as “glamorizing” a prohibited product or downplaying its risks, raising concerns about platform content compliance. Multiple media outlets say the NHRC has asked the competent authorities and police to detail their handling of the matter and to indicate possible enforcement steps.

India’s Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 expressly bans the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage, and advertising of e-cigarettes, citing public health as its legislative purpose. While the law primarily governs market activities, Indian regulators have repeatedly emphasized that portrayals on various media platforms should align with relevant norms and social responsibility.

The Ba*ds of Bollywood, directed by Aryan Khan, premiered on September 18, 2025 on Netflix. It offers a satirical take on the Bollywood ecosystem, with a broad cast and multiple cameos. Compliance review and any enforcement actions related to the disputed scene await subsequent ATR submissions from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the Mumbai Police.