A recent interview with Hollywood Reporter India has sparked a heated debate after Radhika Apte openly criticised films that glorify brutality and demean women. Her comments, which questioned the responsibility of cinema in shaping social values, quickly went viral — but not without controversy.
Soon after the interview was published, social media users began pointing out the apparent contradiction between her remarks and her past filmography. Many referenced her roles in the gore-heavy Rakta Charitra, the explicit anthology Lust Stories, and intense thrillers such as Badlapur and Ghoul. Critics argued that her earlier performances were part of the very cinematic landscape she was now condemning, accusing her of selective outrage and convenient moral positioning.
The discussion gained further momentum as her comments coincided with growing buzz around Dhurandhar, an upcoming gritty spy thriller directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh. Inspired by real-life events, including the IC-814 hijacking, the film has been praised for its realism and intensity. Some questioned whether the actress’ statements were poorly timed, especially as the film’s hard-hitting tone has already been receiving a strong response.
However, supporters were quick to defend her stance, calling it an honest and evolved perspective rather than hypocrisy. Many argued that artists are allowed to grow, reflect and reassess their choices over time. As a parent, they said, her concerns stem from a more personal place — one shaped by responsibility, awareness and lived experience.
Defenders also pointed out that portraying dark or uncomfortable stories is not the same as endorsing them. According to this view, her past roles explored complex, often disturbing realities, whereas her recent comments were directed at films that sensationalise violence without accountability or nuance. They argued that speaking out against such portrayals is a legitimate critique of the industry’s current trends.
I feel quite disturbed & I have to say this openly… I’m deeply disturbed by the violence at the moment that is selling as entertainment, I don’t want to be bringing up a child in a world where that’s entertainment , I just cannot deal with it – #RadhikaApte on being disturbed by… pic.twitter.com/TK7cQAWAwn
— Kolly Censor (@KollyCensor) December 12, 2025
The debate highlights a larger conversation within Indian cinema about where to draw the line between realism and exploitation. As filmmakers increasingly turn to gritty narratives and true-crime inspirations, questions around ethics, representation and impact have become unavoidable.
Whether seen as hypocrisy or honest introspection, the actress’ remarks have undeniably reignited discussions about creative responsibility and personal growth. As the industry evolves, so too do its artists — and the friction between past choices and present convictions continues to shape public discourse.
