Here’s a bold statement: Even the most politically charged films can be artistically brilliant—and Dhurandhar is no exception. But here’s where it gets controversial: While filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has lavished praise on the Ranveer Singh-starrer, calling it “brilliant in execution,” he hasn’t shied away from criticizing its “propaganda dialogues.” In a detailed Letterboxd review, Kashyap walks a tightrope between admiration and critique, sparking a debate that’s as gripping as the film itself.
Released on December 5, Dhurandhar—directed by Aditya Dhar and starring a powerhouse cast including Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Arjun Rampal—has become a blockbuster hit. Yet, its political undertones and portrayal of espionage have ignited both applause and outrage. Kashyap, however, isn’t one to let controversy overshadow craftsmanship. He highlights the film’s technical brilliance and Dhar’s unwavering vision, particularly praising its setting entirely in Pakistan. Ranveer Singh’s performance also earned a special shoutout as one of Kashyap’s recent favorites.
And this is the part most people miss: Kashyap’s take on Dhar’s politics. “I’ve known Aditya Dhar since his National Award-winning film Boond,” Kashyap writes. “His politics are genuine. Agree or disagree, the man is honest—not an opportunist like others.” This nuanced perspective adds depth to the conversation, inviting audiences to separate the art from the artist.
But let’s address the elephant in the room: those “propaganda dialogues.” Kashyap specifically flags lines delivered by R Madhavan and Ranveer Singh, labeling them overtly political. Yet, he draws an intriguing parallel: “If you love The Hurt Locker, Zero Dark Thirty, or House of Dynamite, they’re Oscar-winning propaganda films about the USA. I ignored the two propaganda dialogues and loved the filmmaking and stubbornness of the filmmaker.” This comparison is bound to spark differing opinions—is it fair to equate Hollywood’s political narratives with Bollywood’s? We’ll let you decide.
At its core, Dhurandhar is a gripping tale of an Indian spy navigating covert operations within Pakistan-based criminal networks. Inspired by real events and geopolitical tensions, the film’s blend of fact and fiction has fueled both its box office success and public discourse. With global earnings surpassing a thousand crores and a sequel slated for March 2026, its impact is undeniable.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: Can a film be both a masterpiece and a mouthpiece? Kashyap’s review challenges us to appreciate cinematic excellence while critically examining its message. Whether you agree with his take or not, one thing’s clear: Dhurandhar is a conversation starter—and we’re all ears. What’s your take? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
