Sylvie 
Bollywood, historically renowned for mirroring societal nuances, is witnessing a contentious trend in 2025: the romanticization of violent male characters as ideal lovers. This shift reportedly gained momentum beginning with the film ‘Kabir Singh’, which has been widely criticized for its portrayal of problematic masculinity, marking what many term as Bollywood’s ‘misogyny Olympics.’
Continuing this trend, the film ‘Tere Ishk Mein’, featuring Dhanush and Kriti Sanon, has sparked extensive debates. It is controversial due to its portrayal of a violent male protagonist hailed as a romantic hero. The imagery and characterization in the movie exemplify this growing phenomenon, blending intense romance with displays of aggression and possessiveness — traits traditionally considered undesirable in healthy relationships.
Here are some key points around this evolving trend:
- Portrayal: Aggression and possessiveness are increasingly depicted as components of romantic idealism.
- Audience Reaction: While many admire the passionate performances of actors like Dhanush and Kriti Sanon, others express concern over endorsing harmful behavioral models.
- Societal Impact: Such narratives raise critical questions about the message conveyed to younger viewers regarding love and relationships.
- Cultural Blend: The trend may indicate a fusion of Kannada and Hindi film cultures that embraces complex emotional storytelling but risks normalizing darker human behaviors.
Film critics and experts advocate for:
- A reconsideration of how heroes are portrayed, emphasizing healthier relationship dynamics.
- A balanced portrayal that avoids glorifying violence while maintaining artistic storytelling.
- Greater responsibility among filmmakers, actors, and audiences in shaping cultural narratives.
As Bollywood continues to navigate this challenging trend, discussions spurred by films like ‘Tere Ishk Mein’ prompt a deeper evaluation of romantic ideals and societal values within contemporary Indian cinema.
Stay tuned to Flick Bites for more updates on this evolving topic.
About The Author
