Netflix Defends Against Wankhede’s Request to Halt Streaming

Post by : Mara Rahim

Streaming giant Netflix has firmly opposed a request by IRS officer Sameer Wankhede in the Delhi High Court to prohibit the airing of its new series, “The Ba*ds of Bollywood.”** Wankhede alleges the show has harmed his reputation and has called for its removal from platforms. Netflix counters that the series functions as satire and should not be construed as defamation.

During the court proceedings on Thursday, November 27, 2025, Netflix contended that the content incorporates humor, parody, and critiques of Bollywood's operations. The company emphasized that such creative expression is legally protected and cannot be restricted simply due to someone's offense. Netflix remarked that Wankhede should not overanalyze a brief comedic segment of only one minute and thirty seconds, particularly since he acknowledges its satirical nature.

Representing Netflix, senior advocate Rajiv Nayar informed the court that defamation cases of this nature necessitate a high standard of proof. He stated that Wankhede cannot seek an immediate ban unless he substantiates malice, which would require a full trial to establish. Additionally, merely associating the show with Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan does not suffice to warrant a ban.

Nayar further explained that the series aims to expose “the dark side of Bollywood” and its stark realities. He argued that the entire production employs satire, exaggeration, and ridicule to comment on the film industry rather than target any specific individual. Viewed holistically, each character serves as a symbolic representation rather than a literal accusation.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for December 2, allowing for Wankhede’s rebuttal. The judge also instructed him to submit written arguments before then.

Shah Rukh Khan’s production company, Red Chillies Entertainment, which produced the series, has likewise opposed Wankhede’s request. Red Chillies argued that the case should not have been filed in Delhi because neither party is based there, suggesting that the venue choice constitutes “forum shopping,” or selecting a court for convenience.

In its response, Red Chillies maintained that the show is crafted as satire and fits within the realm of legitimate artistic expression. It touches on prevalent controversies in Bollywood, including nepotism, celebrity culture, paparazzi troubles, relationship scandals, and the trials faced by newcomers. These elements, the company claimed, are presented through humor and parody.

Wankhede, however, dismissed these points in his rejoinder. He asserted that the “defamatory content” was designed to retaliate against him due to his involvement in the 2021 drug case linked to Aryan Khan. He alleged that the series' creators produced it specifically to attack and shame him. Wankhede is seeking ₹2 crore in damages, which he desires to be donated to the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital.

Previously, on October 8, the court had issued notices to various parties, including Netflix, Red Chillies Entertainment, Google, Meta, X Corp, RPSG Lifestyle Media, and unidentified individuals (John Doe), requesting responses to the defamation claims.

Wankhede’s application also asserts that the series fosters a negative perception of anti-drug agencies and undermines public confidence in law enforcement. He highlighted a scene where a character makes an obscene gesture immediately following the phrase “Satyamev Jayate,” drawn from the National Emblem. He contends this breaches the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, a statute prohibiting insults to national symbols.

The court will review all submissions prior to deciding if the series can remain available for streaming or if restrictions need to be imposed. The case has drawn considerable public interest due to its ties to Bollywood, freedom of expression, and the previous high-profile drug investigation.

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