Paresh Rawal Opens Up About Vulgarity in Web Series and the Rise of Unnecessary Shock Content
Veteran Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal has voiced strong criticism about the way many modern web series portray vulgar content. In a recent interview with Bollywood Bubble, he addressed the concerning trend of including explicit sex scenes and abusive language without meaningful context.
The actor, known for his versatile performances across decades, labelled such content choices as “cheap tactics to grab eyeballs.” Rawal explained that what may have initially seemed bold and edgy has now turned into a repetitive formula, which viewers are beginning to reject.
The overuse of explicit scenes and profanities, Rawal noted, often reflects a lack of creativity and effort in writing. Instead of focusing on authentic storytelling, some creators rely on shock value. The veteran actor urged filmmakers to act more responsibly and use subtlety when dealing with sensitive content.
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Paresh Rawal pointed out that audiences are now fatigued with seeing the same formula repeatedly across web series. He said, “Baad mein log isliye uub gaye the, kyunki har doosri teesri series mein gaaliyan aati thi, sex scenes hote the — woh bhi bina kisi matlab ke.”
This translates to: “People got bored because every second or third series had abuses and sex scenes — and that too, without any real purpose.”
His statement reflects the growing sentiment among viewers who once found such content daring but now view it as tasteless and unimaginative.
According to Rawal, instead of enhancing the story, these scenes often serve no real function. They’re used simply to provoke reactions and artificially boost viewership.
Rawal Says Family Viewing Habits Have Been Disrupted by Vulgar Content on OTT Platforms
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, families spent more time together and turned to digital streaming platforms for entertainment. But Rawal noted that the trend of inserting uncomfortable scenes made it difficult for families to watch shows together.
Many web series featuring explicit sex scenes or excessive swearing created awkward moments in living rooms. Family members would often leave the room during certain scenes or avoid watching those shows entirely.
This, Rawal believes, is a direct result of creators neglecting their responsibility to deliver content that caters to wider audiences. The overuse of vulgarity and sexual content has effectively reduced the inclusivity of digital entertainment.
Censorship and Creative Freedom: Paresh Rawal Advocates for Responsible Storytelling, Not Political Intervention
When asked about political parties wanting to control content or enforce “sanskari” values, Rawal offered a balanced view. He narrated a joke to illustrate how people can always find flaws if they look for them too hard.
“Content is a mirror of society,” he said, “but it must be used wisely and with judgment. Not every real issue in society needs to be shown in graphic detail.”
He stressed that art doesn’t always need to shock; it can educate, inspire, and inform without resorting to vulgarity. Rawal argued that content creators should rely on intelligent storytelling, subtle suggestions, and emotional realism to convey powerful messages.
This aligns with a growing demand for more thoughtful, engaging, and meaningful narratives on digital platforms, moving beyond gimmicks.
The Government’s Role in Regulating Taste: A Necessary Step or Creative Overreach?
As audiences grew tired of the excessive sex and language in web series, Rawal believes the government stepped in to regulate taste and public sentiment. He stated, “It is the government’s job to maintain public opinion and taste.”
While censorship remains a contentious topic, Rawal believes regulation sometimes becomes necessary when creators continuously ignore viewer feedback. He added that this intervention could have been avoided if content makers had voluntarily adopted more responsible practices.
In the age of streaming, where shows reach households directly, some form of accountability becomes crucial. Rawal’s comments reflect a broader call for balance between creative freedom and social responsibility.
Paresh Rawal’s Next Film: Nikita Roy to Explore Psychological Thriller Elements with a Grey Character
While addressing issues in the entertainment industry, Paresh Rawal also discussed his next big project. The actor will be seen in the psychological supernatural thriller Nikita Roy, directed by Kussh S. Sinha, son of veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha.
Rawal plays a complex, grey-shaded character in the film. He is joined by Sonakshi Sinha, Arjun Rampal, and Suhail Nayyar in prominent roles. The film explores supernatural elements with deep emotional undercurrents and promises to be a gripping watch.
Initially scheduled for release on June 27, Nikita Roy is now set to release on July 18, 2025. The change avoids a clash with high-profile releases like Kannappa and F1: The Movie.
Content Creators Must Shift From Shock Value to Substance and Emotional Depth
Rawal’s statements serve as a reminder for content creators and OTT platforms to introspect. The short-lived success of shows built only on vulgarity and sensation is evident. Today’s viewers demand thoughtful storytelling, multidimensional characters, and culturally sensitive themes.
He strongly believes the future of entertainment lies not in pushing limits for the sake of it, but in creating content that resonates. Shock can attract attention, but only depth can keep it.
Filmmakers should take cues from Rawal’s illustrious career — from humorous classics like Hera Pheri to intense roles in films like Sardar — where strong storytelling always took the front seat.
Paresh Rawal’s insights highlight the growing disconnect between content creators and audiences. By calling out the overuse of sex and abusive language in web series, he’s not just critiquing trends — he’s urging a shift toward responsible, value-driven filmmaking.
To remain relevant and respected, web series creators must stop relying on “cheap tactics” and start delivering narratives that reflect society with nuance, not noise.
