What happens when the son of one of India’s biggest stars steps not in front of the camera—but behind it? Aryan Khan’s directorial debut, “The Ba***ds of Bollywood,” arrived as a seven-episode series on Netflix, streaming worldwide since September 18, 2025. But does it live up to the hype that’s been building for years?
Red Carpet Energy: Grand Premiere and Industry Buzz
The buzz began even before the Netflix launch, with Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan, and a galaxy of Bollywood stars attending a grand premiere in Mumbai. Celebrities from Salman Khan and Ranbir Kapoor to Aamir Khan and Karan Johar not only made cameo appearances but also cheered Aryan’s bold new project. As soon as the series dropped on Netflix at 12:30 pm IST, reactions exploded on social media, with fans, critics, and even rival filmmakers sharing hot takes and memes.
Hilarious, Satirical, and Meta: What’s the Story?
“The Ba***ds of Bollywood” is not just another glossy drama—it’s a self-aware, high-energy, and sometimes riotously funny look at the real (and surreal) inner workings of the Hindi film industry. The show follows Aasmaan Singh, an outsider with big dreams, and Karishma, a star kid, as they navigate cut-throat movie deals, fake friendships, and nights as wild as any tabloid headline.
From its first episode, Aryan Khan’s writing and direction have fun spoofing Bollywood traditions—nepotism, scandals, even the “self-trolls” of movie royalty. As one reviewer put it: “It might be the first movie after Om Shanti Om where all the stars come together. It shows how influential SRK really is, with some roles done as a self troll, almost like a mocking”.
Cast, Cameos, and Characters
Aryan Khan may be the debutant director, but the cast packs Bollywood power. Lakshya Lalwani and Sahher Bambba lead as the young dreamers—Aasmaan and Karishma—while Bobby Deol, Mona Singh, Raghav Juyal, and others deliver charisma and comic timing. The real fun? Cameos galore: viewer favorites like Salman Khan, Ranveer Singh, and even Shah Rukh Khan himself pop up in witty, blink-and-miss appearances.
Everyone, from fan Tweet storms to reviewers, applauds Bobby Deol’s magnetic screen presence and the leads’ chemistry as fresh talent. Raghav Juyal draws laughs as the loyal friend, while Mona Singh’s character adds comic energy to every scene.
Aryan Khan’s Signature Satire and Direction
What stands out, from the fast-paced storytelling to snarky meta-commentary, is Aryan Khan’s willingness to break the mold. The show pokes sharp fun at Bollywood’s “doglapan,” from nepotism debates to viral PR drama, without losing heart or humor.
The dialogue is lively, cussing is common, and the overall vibe feels young, chaotic, and fun—a true reflection of Aryan’s own journey through the industry’s maze. Seasoned directors and celebrities have weighed in: Filmmaker Rahul Dholakia tweeted, “Not Stars but ***’s are born!! What an entertaining and spoofy goofy first episode… You just have to watch it!!!” Producer Sunita Gowariker praised Aryan’s work as “amazing, entertaining, funny series… You have outdone yourself.”
For those interested, here’s a detailed trailer and review of The Ba***ds of Bollywood that dives deeper into the show’s unique style and reception.
Music, Visuals, and Vibes
The soundtrack echoes the series’ nightclub energy—with club songs dominating, shallow lyrics, and a glam-pop sensibility that adds zing to wild party scenes. Visuals are polished and kinetic; there isn’t a dull moment as viewers are whisked from film sets to impromptu award nights.
Audience Reaction: “Filmy, Fun, and Engaging”
Within hours, audiences called the show “filmy, fun, and engaging” and praised Aryan Khan’s confident directorial debut. Viewers love the bold comedy, cameos, and inside jokes, with some saying “there should’ve been at least 10 episodes not just 7”. Even when the show leans into goofiness or exaggeration, it’s with bold style and a clear love for all things Bollywood.
If you’re curious about Bollywood fandom, enjoy sharp satire, and love spotting celebrities in new avatars, “The Ba***ds of Bollywood” is more than worth your screen time. Aryan Khan has delivered a wildly entertaining, tongue-in-cheek look at an industry that thrives on both dreams—and drama.
Sources
- Netflix – Watch Movie
