Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has responded to criticism claiming that the film Dhurandhar is propaganda, asserting that those who hold this view are free to contest it legally or create an anti-establishment film themselves.
Rawal, a self-proclaimed fan of the two-part espionage saga, revealed that he watched the first installment twice in theatres and is planning another viewing of the second.
He emphasized that labeling a pro-establishment story as propaganda is not valid if the film simply portrays the government in a positive light.
Rawal stated, “If an anti-establishment film can be made, then what is wrong with making a pro-establishment film? There is nothing wrong with it. If a film criticizes the government, that is acceptable, so why shouldn’t a film highlighting good governance be allowed?” He added that instead of dismissing films like Dhurandhar, the struggling Hindi film industry should support them, especially as audiences are reportedly not flocking to theatres.
According to him, films like this are essential to keep people engaged and to revitalize cinema at a time when box office numbers are declining.
The actor also praised the story of Dhurandhar, calling it a saga rather than a conventional movie.He said the film’s scale and storytelling made him feel he should have been part of it.
Rawal reminisced about his role in Uri: The Surgical Strike, where he played a character inspired by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, a role now portrayed by R. Madhavan in Dhurandhar.
He humorously noted the similarities in their performances, joking to director Aditya Dhar that “Doval sahab has a twin brother,” prompting laughter from the filmmaker.
In addition to discussing Dhurandhar, Rawal is gearing up for the release of Priyadarshan’s Bhooth Bangla, set to hit theatres on April 17.
The film features an ensemble cast including Akshay Kumar, Rajpal Yadav, Tabu, and Mithila Palkar, and is produced by Akshay Kumar, Shobha Kapoor, and Ektaa R Kapoor under Balaji Motion Pictures in association with Cape of Good Films.
Rawal’s comments reflect a broader discussion about the intersection of cinema and politics.
He stresses creative freedom in filmmaking and encourages critics to engage constructively—either through legal means or by creating alternative narratives—rather than dismissing films outright.
His defense underscores the role of cinema in shaping audience perception while highlighting the need for support within the industry during challenging times. (PTI)
