Dhurandhar triggers political storm as parties spar over ‘propaganda’

Filmmaker Aditya Dhar’s latest release Dhurandhar has sparked an intense debate across India, as several political parties accused the film of “promoting the government’s propaganda”, while the Centre has maintained that the movie merely depicts terrorism and that the government has no role or influence in its making.
Released on December 5, the high-octane spy thriller is written and directed by Aditya Dhar. Starring Ranveer Singh in the lead role, the film traces covert intelligence operations against the backdrop of major geopolitical and terror-related events, including the Kandahar plane hijacking, the 2001 Parliament terror attack and the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
While some viewers have applauded its cinematic scale, gripping narrative and ambitious storytelling, others have criticised what they describe as an overtly hyper-nationalist tone and the extensive portrayal of violence, calling it unsettling and provocative.
Reports have also emerged that ‘Dhurandhar’ has been blocked from release in several Gulf countries due to its content. However, this is not the first instance of Indian films being restricted or banned in Gulf nations over sensitive themes or what is perceived as an anti-Pakistan narrative. (PTI)