Published on: December 17, 2025
By: BTNI
Location: Mumbai, India
The recently released Bollywood action-thriller Dhurandhar has emerged as one of the most talked-about films of the year, drawing unprecedented public attention for its box-office performance, intense storytelling, and the strong reactions it has generated across social, political, and cinematic circles.
Starring Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, and Sanjay Dutt, Dhurandhar has witnessed packed theatres across the country since its release. The film has crossed the ₹350-crore mark at the domestic box office within less than two weeks, placing it among the highest-grossing Indian films of the year. Trade analysts attribute the success to strong word-of-mouth, mass appeal, and the film’s gritty narrative, which has resonated with a large section of audiences.
Public reactions, however, have been deeply divided. While many viewers have praised the film for its powerful performances, high-octane action, and emotionally charged sequences, others have expressed discomfort with its graphic violence and political undertones. Several scenes, particularly those depicting terror attacks and conflict, have sparked emotional responses from audiences. A survivor of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks publicly stated that certain scenes brought back painful memories, highlighting the film’s intense impact.
The film’s reach has extended beyond Indian borders as well. A viral video showing a Pakistani viewer reacting emotionally to Dhurandhar has ignited cross-border discussions, with many users calling the moment “cinema beyond boundaries,” while others criticized the narrative portrayal of geopolitical tensions.
Celebrities have also weighed in with mixed opinions. Actors like Akshay Kumar, Allu Arjun, and Randeep Hooda praised the film’s scale and performances, calling it bold and impactful. On the other hand, some industry figures expressed reservations about its messaging. Actor Hrithik Roshan’s critical remarks regarding the film’s ideological tone led to online backlash and trolling, reflecting the highly polarized response among fans.
The controversy surrounding Dhurandhar intensified after several critics and social media commentators accused the film of glorifying violence and promoting propaganda. Supporters of the film countered these claims, arguing that the story reflects harsh realities rather than fictionalized heroism. The debate escalated to such an extent that the Film Critics Guild issued a statement condemning online harassment and threats directed at reviewers who shared negative opinions.
Despite the criticism, audience turnout remains strong, with many viewers describing Dhurandhar as a gripping cinematic experience that challenges conventional Bollywood storytelling. Social media platforms continue to host heated discussions, with hashtags related to the film trending regularly.
As Dhurandhar continues its theatrical run, it stands as a film that has not only achieved commercial success but also ignited a nationwide conversation on cinema, violence, politics, and freedom of expression. Whether viewed as a bold artistic statement or a divisive narrative, Dhurandhar has undeniably left a significant mark on contemporary Indian cinema.
