Filmmaker Aditya Dhar’s latest release Dhurandhar has sparked sharp criticism from sections of the audience and cultural commentators, who allege that the film promotes a bigoted vision under the guise of mainstream entertainment.
The film, which opened nationwide last week, has been accused of gaslighting viewers into normalizing divisive narratives. Critics argue that its portrayal of communities and social dynamics relies on stereotypes and exclusionary messaging, raising concerns about the impact of such content in a diverse society.
Several reviewers have highlighted that while Dhurandhar is packaged as a high-octane drama with patriotic undertones, its subtext appears to reinforce prejudices rather than challenge them. Social media platforms have seen heated debates, with some users calling for accountability in filmmaking and others defending Dhar’s creative freedom.
Industry observers note that controversies of this nature reflect a growing tension between artistic expression and social responsibility in Indian cinema. As films continue to wield significant influence over public opinion, the debate around Dhurandhar underscores the need for nuanced storytelling that avoids alienating audiences.
