A newly released Bollywood spy thriller has triggered strong reactions in both India and Pakistan, drawing praise for its cinematic scale while also fuelling debate over its political undertones and portrayal of bilateral tensions.
The film, Dhurandhar, which opened in cinemas last week, takes viewers into a fast-paced world of espionage, organised crime and covert operations set against the backdrop of the long-standing rivalry between the two neighbouring countries.
Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh plays the lead role of Hamza, an Indian intelligence officer sent on a dangerous mission into Karachi. The storyline follows his clashes with criminal groups and secret operatives, while also exploring his internal struggles, all framed within the broader context of India-Pakistan relations.
Audiences have largely praised the film’s action sequences, performances and ambitious storytelling. However, it has also attracted criticism for what some viewers describe as an aggressive nationalist tone and a controversial depiction of sensitive historical and political issues.
The film is directed by Aditya Dhar, who first gained widespread attention with Uri: The Surgical Strike in 2019, a film based on India’s military action following the 2016 Uri attack. That project was both a box-office success and a recipient of national awards. Dhar later co-wrote and produced Article 370, a film centred on the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, which also received public praise from senior political leaders.
With Dhurandhar, Dhar returns to the political-thriller genre on a larger scale. The film features intense close-combat scenes, prolonged gunfights and graphic depictions of violence. Many of these sequences are shot in confined spaces, creating a sense of tension and discomfort that has divided audiences.
Online discussions around the film have been sharply polarised. While some viewers admire its scale and storytelling, others argue that its use of violence and patriotic symbolism risks deepening political divides.
The debate has extended beyond audiences to film critics as well. Some reviewers have reported facing online harassment following their assessments of the film. In response, the Film Critics’ Guild released a statement condemning what it described as targeted attacks and intimidation directed at critics for expressing their opinions.
Despite the controversy, Dhurandhar continues to attract large crowds and has already emerged as one of the biggest box-office successes of the year.
Industry observers say the response reflects a broader trend in Indian cinema, where politically charged and nationalist-themed films have gained popularity, often drawing directly on real-world events and government policies.