Dhurandhar a "₹300 crore propaganda film
Dhruv Rathee has called Dhurandhar a "₹300 crore propaganda film," and his main issue is with its extreme violence and the way it handles certain political themes. He started criticising it when the trailer came out, and his attacks ramped up as the film became a huge box-office hit in December 2025.
Here's what he's been saying:
1. The "ISIS Videos" Comparison
Rathee's biggest complaint, and the one that went viral, was about how graphic the film is. He reckons the level of gore, torture, and "ISIS-style beheadings" shown in the trailer and the film itself goes too far—it's not just entertainment anymore, it's dangerous.
His argument: By dressing up extreme brutality as "patriotic entertainment," the filmmakers are "poisoning young people's minds" just to make money.
2. Making Violence Normal
Rathee also had a go at India's Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), accusing them of double standards. He pointed out that the board is usually strict about kissing scenes or swearing, but they let "dehumanising violence" through without a problem. He thinks this is deliberate—part of an agenda to desensitise audiences to violence.
3. The Pakistan Angle
Like others who've criticised recent Indian spy thrillers, Rathee reckons the film relies on an over-the-top, predictable portrayal of Pakistan (specifically the Lyari area) to stir up nationalist emotions.
His claim: The film isn't just a story—it's a tool for pushing a specific political message. He calls it "cheap" filmmaking that relies on stoking hatred rather than any real artistic quality.
4. All About the Money
Rathee took aim directly at the , Aditya Dhar, accusing him of being driven by greed. He claims Dhar made a film that puts shock value and political messaging ahead of any sense of social responsibility. He sees the ₹300 crore budget as funding for a "propaganda machine" designed to cash in on the current political mood.
The Pushback
Rathee's comments kicked off a huge argument online, with two main counter-arguments:
The Gangs of Wasseypur Hypocrisy: People on social media—including actors like Ranvir Shorey—called Rathee out for having praised violent cult films like Gangs of Wasseypur in the past. Rathee actually responded by admitting he was "wrong back then" and that he now sees the damage such films can do.
Artistic Freedom: Supporters of Dhurandhar argue that it's an "A-rated" action film meant for adults, and that its brutal depiction of terrorism reflects a harsh reality, not propaganda.
Pakistan’s Official Response
Pakistan has reacted very strongly to Dhurandhar. The government has openly criticised the film and says it is trying to damage Pakistan’s image around the world. Leaders in Sindh say this is not just a movie, but a planned attempt to show Pakistan in a bad light.
Here’s how Pakistan has responded and why:
1. Strong Official Criticism
Sharjeel Inam Memon, Sindh’s Information Minister, called the film a “conspiracy” and said it spreads negative propaganda against Pakistan.
Lyari portrayal:
The film is set in Lyari, an area of Karachi, and shows it as violent and controlled by criminals linked to the ISI. The Sindh government says this is unfair and false. They point out that Lyari is known for its football culture, music, and talent, and is often called “Mini Brazil”.
Legal case:
A supporter of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has filed a case in a Karachi court against the director Aditya Dhar and the film’s cast. They claim the film damages the PPP’s image by showing its flags and rallies alongside terrorists.
2. The Counter Film: Mera Lyari
In response, the Sindh Information Department announced its own film called Mera Lyari, set to release in January 2026.
Purpose:
The aim is to show the “real Lyari” by focusing on peace, strength, and local talent rather than crime.
Cast:
The film stars popular Pakistani actors including Ayesha Omar, Dananeer Mobeen, and Samiya Mumtaz.
Background:
The director, Abu Aleeha, says the film was already in production, but the government is now using it as a cultural reply to the Bollywood film.
3. Ban and Diplomatic Pressure
Ban in Pakistan:
Dhurandhar has been officially banned from release in Pakistan.
Pressure in Gulf countries:
Reports say Pakistani diplomats and community groups have asked authorities in countries like the UAE and Qatar to limit or stop the film’s release. They argue it is anti-Pakistan and could create social tension.
Comparison of the Two Films
Dhurandhar (India): Focuses on crime, terrorism, and intelligence agencies. Shows Lyari as violent and lawless. Big-budget film starring Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna.
Mera Lyari (Pakistan): Focuses on culture, peace, and resilience. Shows Lyari as creative and full of life. Mid-budget film with government support, led by local characters.
Final Note
What started as a commercial Bollywood film has now turned into a cultural and political clash. By late 2025, Dhurandhar is no longer just entertainment — it has become a point of tension between India and Pakistan.
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