Sat Dec 06 19:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewritten news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
The article critiques Aditya Dhar’s film “Dhurandhar” as a work of right-wing propaganda disguised as a spy thriller. The reviewer argues that the film, while technically competent, uses inflammatory depictions of Pakistani characters and subtly promotes a pro-establishment narrative. The film seemingly endorses aggressive action against Pakistan, echoes sentiments of Hindu nationalism, and selectively presents historical events to incite anger and fear. The review highlights the film’s gratuitous violence and the director’s exploitation of Muslim aesthetics while simultaneously portraying them as “barbaric.” It concludes that “Dhurandhar” is less amateurish than other right-wing films but ultimately serves as a recruitment tool for a specific political ideology, rather than simply telling a story.
News Article:
“Dhurandhar”: Bollywood Spy Thriller or Propaganda?
MUMBAI – Aditya Dhar’s latest film, “Dhurandhar,” starring Ranveer Singh, is under scrutiny for its alleged pro-establishment and anti-Pakistan messaging. Critics are accusing the film of exploiting real-life events, such as the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, to stoke nationalist fervor and promote a specific political agenda.
The film, a spy thriller set against the backdrop of Indo-Pakistani relations, has been criticized for its depiction of Pakistani characters, often portrayed as violent and barbaric. One particular scene involving transcripts of conversations between the 26/11 attackers and their handlers, displayed on a red screen with references to “kaafirs,” has been singled out as particularly inflammatory.
The review also alleges that “Dhurandhar” subtly promotes a pro-government narrative, referencing a scene where an Intelligence Bureau official laments the need for a government that “backs” them, a possible allusion to the current administration. This echoes similar themes found in Dhar’s previous film, “Uri: The Surgical Strike,” which was perceived as supportive of the ruling party.
While acknowledging Dhar’s directorial competence and the performances of the cast, critics argue that “Dhurandhar” sacrifices nuanced storytelling for the sake of ideological messaging. The film’s gratuitous violence and seemingly contradictory use of Muslim cultural elements have also drawn criticism.
“[The film] doesn’t want to tell a story, it wants to recruit,” The Wire stated in their review, suggesting the film serves as a vehicle for promoting a particular ideology rather than providing genuine entertainment. “Dhurandhar” is currently playing in theaters, with a sequel already announced for 2026. The controversy surrounding the film raises questions about the role of Bollywood in shaping public opinion and the increasing prevalence of nationalistic themes in Indian cinema.
First Piper 