What’s Behind the Controversy Surrounding 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge'?
Controversy Erupts Over 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge'
New Delhi: The debut of Dhurandhar: The Revenge has ignited a new wave of controversy, as religious leaders voice their discontent regarding its themes and community representation. On Thursday, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, the head of the All India Muslim Jamaat, along with Chief Mufti of Uttar Pradesh, Maulana Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain, accused the filmmakers of exacerbating Hindu-Muslim tensions for profit.
Maulana Barelvi expressed his concerns to a news outlet, stating, "After viewing Dhurandhar 2, it appears that the narrative is built on falsehoods. The individuals involved in the film industry, particularly directors, seem driven solely by financial gain. In their pursuit of profit, they are fostering discord between Hindus and Muslims, undermining the peace and unity that should exist between these communities."
Maulana Husain echoed these sentiments, questioning the appropriateness of films that tackle sensitive issues without proper verification.
He remarked, "Our nation has its own agencies and judicial systems. Until these bodies validate or take action, no one should produce films that target specific communities. It’s essential to clarify that terrorism is not confined to any religion. Terrorism and crime stem from mental health issues; anyone can engage in such acts, but there must be substantial evidence. The judiciary and investigative agencies are responsible for these matters. Producing films that specifically target Muslims, contrary to judicial processes, is both unconstitutional and illegal."
Despite the backlash, Dhurandhar: The Revenge, helmed by Aditya Dhar and featuring Ranveer Singh, has made a significant impact at the box office. The film held preview screenings on March 18, a day before its official release on March 19, and reportedly grossed ₹75 crore globally on its opening day, as per trade analysts.
However, the cancellation and postponement of several preview screenings in India may necessitate refunds, which could influence the final earnings.
The film has garnered attention not just for its cast's performances but also for the surrounding controversies. From legal petitions to public outcry and discussions about its political implications, Dhurandhar has consistently made headlines.
Additionally, the family of late Major Mohit Sharma, a recipient of the Ashoka Chakra, has alleged that the film draws heavily from his life and covert missions.
Criticism has also arisen from members of the Baloch diaspora, who have taken issue with the representation of Baloch characters and insurgent groups.
Moreover, some critics argue that the film strongly emphasizes nationalist themes, with its portrayal of cross-border conflicts and intelligence operations perceived by some as politically motivated and propagandistic rather than purely artistic.