Bollywood has long been known for its grand spectacles, but Dhurandhar takes things to another level. With a runtime of nearly three and a half hours and a reported budget of ₹250–280 crore, the film is one of the most ambitious projects in Indian cinema. It is not just a fictional spy story; it is rooted in real incidents like the Kandahar hijack of 1999 and the Indian Parliament attack of 2001, which makes it both thrilling and politically charged. The film’s release was highly anticipated, especially since Ranveer Singh had been away from the big screen for nearly two years. His return has been described as a “smashing comeback” by critics.
Plot Overview:
The story follows Ajay Sanyal, played by Ranveer Singh, who is the Intelligence Bureau Chief tasked with leading daring covert operations against terrorism. The narrative explores his infiltration into Karachi’s underworld to counter growing threats. Alongside this, the film introduces a young boy from Punjab who has been wrongfully imprisoned and becomes an unexpected ally in the mission.
The movie blends patriotism, sacrifice, and raw violence, portraying the harsh realities of counter‑terrorism. It is unapologetically intense, with critics calling it one of the most violent films ever made in India.
Cast and Performances:
The ensemble cast adds depth to the film:
- Ranveer Singh delivers a powerful performance, embodying both the grit and vulnerability of Ajay Sanyal.
- Akshaye Khanna has been singled out by reviewers as a standout, ruling the “labyrinth of war and politics” with his commanding presence.
- Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, and Sara Arjun all play crucial roles, adding layers to the narrative.
Fans on social media have praised the massive transformations of the actors, noting how each brought intensity and realism to their roles.
Release and Reception:
The film released on December 5, 2025, and benefitted from the postponement of Akhanda 2, which cleared the way for Dhurandhar to dominate screens.
Fan Reactions:
Social media has been flooded with reactions:
- Many fans called it “engaging” and “must‑watch”, praising the visuals and emotional depth.
- Others hailed Ranveer Singh’s comeback, saying he is “on absolute fire”.
- Some did note the long runtime, but most agreed the film remained gripping throughout.
Deepika Padukone, Ranveer’s wife, also expressed excitement for the film, adding to the buzz.
Box Office Performance:
Advance bookings crossed ₹14 crore before release, and trade analysts predicted a ₹15–20 crore net opening day. With its massive budget, the film needs strong word‑of‑mouth to sustain momentum. Early signs suggest it is well on its way to becoming a blockbuster, with fans calling it a “mega hit” on social mediaZee News.
Themes and Impact:
What sets Dhurandhar apart is its blend of real history and fictional drama. By weaving in events like the Kandahar hijack and Parliament attack, the film resonates deeply with audiences familiar with India’s fight against terrorism. It also raises questions about national security, sacrifice, and resilience, making it more than just an action spectacle.
The film’s unapologetic violence has sparked debate, with some calling it necessary to portray the harsh realities of terrorism, while others feel it pushes boundaries. Regardless, it has succeeded in sparking conversation, which is often the mark of impactful cinema.
Looking Ahead:
The makers have already announced Dhurandhar Part 2, scheduled for release on March 19, 2026 (Eid). This confirms that the story is envisioned as a two‑part saga, similar to Rakta Charitra. Fans are eagerly awaiting the continuation, especially given the cliffhanger ending of the first film.
Dhurandhar is more than just a movie; it is a cinematic event. With its massive scale, intense performances, and politically charged storyline, it has cemented itself as one of the most ambitious projects in Bollywood history. Ranveer Singh’s comeback has been met with widespread acclaim, and the film’s success at the box office seems assured.
The December 2025 release has reminded audiences of the power of cinema to blend entertainment with real‑world issues. Whether loved for its patriotism or debated for its violence, Dhurandhar has made a mark that will be remembered for years to come.
