Sat Dec 06 18:20:00 UTC 2025: Headline: Bollywood Film “Dhurandhar” Faces Legal Hurdle Over Alleged Unauthorized Depiction of War Hero
New Delhi: The upcoming Bollywood film “Dhurandhar,” starring Ranveer Singh, is embroiled in controversy after the family of Major Mohit Sharma, a highly decorated Indian Army officer, filed a petition in the Delhi High Court alleging the film is based on his life without their consent or acknowledgement.
Major Mohit Sharma, posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra for his bravery and sacrifice in 2009 while battling militants in Jammu and Kashmir, is revered as a national hero. His family claims that the film, scheduled for release on December 5th, portrays a character remarkably similar to the late Major, infiltrating a terrorist network in Pakistan. They assert that the filmmakers never sought their permission to depict his story and actions.
The petition sought protection of Major Sharma’s legacy and requested a private screening for the family before the film’s release. The family’s legal plea came after online speculation suggested similarities between characters in “Dhurandhar” and real-life figures, including a Pakistani police officer, a Karachi-based criminal, and even drawing parallels to National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
Director Aditya Dhar maintains that “Dhurandhar” is a fictional work, drawing inspiration from true events but not specifically based on Major Sharma’s life. The film censor board has already approved the film for release.
The Delhi High Court addressed the petition, directing the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to thoroughly review the family’s concerns before granting final certification. The court also suggested the CBFC consult with the Indian Army authorities if deemed necessary. The controversy has ignited debate about the ethics of depicting real-life heroes in film without proper consent and the responsibility of filmmakers in preserving historical accuracy and respecting the families of those who have served the nation.
First Piper 