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Many argued that the portrayal of Virat Kohli and Genelia D’Souza engaging in such behaviour was disrespectful to aviation professionals.
Virat Kohli and Genelia D’Souza starred in a series of provocative ads for a watch brand.
Virat Kohli and Genelia D’Souza once starred in an advertisement for a watch brand, which was deemed too suggestive for Indian television. It was banned by the authorities for its ‘adult content’. The video featured Genelia as an airhostess, enticing ‘pilot’ Virat to have sex with her during the course of the flight. ‘Pilot’ Virat gives in, risking the lives of the passengers.
The advertisement suggested that the autopilot mode was introduced by airlines as the crew wanted to indulge in sexual relations. A glimpse of the clip has resurfaced on Reddit, reminding fans about the video. It was shared with the caption, “The ad of Genelia and Virat was so controversial that it got banned within its release.” Have a look here:
One person wrote, “Abhi dekha, ban hone jaisa tha.” Another wrote, “How did Genelia agree to this, considering the family she was about to get married into?” Another person wrote, referring to Ranbir Kapoor’s character in Animal, “Did it earlier than Ranvijay.” Someone else added, “Genelia was such a smoke show. Is still very beautiful.” Referring to Virat’s recent comment about the Instagram algorithm, another wrote, “Now I have reached the conclusion that Virat bhau hi aapna Instagram chalate hai.”
The video was also reportedly banned as it showed people’s lives being put at risk for humour. Many argued that the portrayal of a pilot and an airhostess engaging in such behaviour was disrespectful to aviation professionals and sent the wrong message to younger audiences. While the advertisement was banned from being aired on Indian television, it is still available on YouTube. Have a look here:
Virat and Genelia featured in a series of provocative ads for the brand. In another video, the duo is seen emerging one after the other from a fitting room, dishevelled and exchanging flirty glances, implying that they had engaged in a sexual encounter inside. The ad hinted at carefree, nonchalant attitudes toward relationships and societal norms. While many viewers found the ad humorous and in line with modern culture, others criticised it for being too risqué for mainstream television.
Complaints quickly poured in from viewers who considered the ad indecent and inappropriate, especially for younger audiences. Many argued that the commercial promoted casual sex and undermined Indian cultural values. Despite the backlash, the controversy did little to affect the careers of either Kohli or D’Souza. Kohli continued to grow into a global cricket icon, while Genelia remained a popular actress and public figure.

Kashvi Raj Singh is a Sub Editor at News18. She extensively covers Bollywood, Hollywood and television. She not only keeps an eye out for interesting news angles but also often writes social commentary in long-…Read More
Kashvi Raj Singh is a Sub Editor at News18. She extensively covers Bollywood, Hollywood and television. She not only keeps an eye out for interesting news angles but also often writes social commentary in long-… Read More
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