Introduction
Dhurandhar, released on 5 December 2025, is a Hindi-language spy action thriller directed by Aditya Dhar and co-produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios. Starring Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, and R. Madhavan, the film depicts a decade-long Indian intelligence operation where an undercover agent infiltrates the criminal and political underworld in Karachi, Pakistan. With its runtime of 214 minutes, Dhurandhar has emerged as the highest-grossing Indian A-rated film of 2025, earning over ₹960 crore worldwide.
The film is notable for its action-packed sequences, multi-layered plot, and real-life inspired events, including Operation Lyari, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and the 1999 IC-814 hijack. However, it has also faced controversies regarding its portrayal of Pakistan, historical events, and real-life figures.
Is Dhurandhar a Real Story?
Many viewers have wondered if Dhurandhar is based on true events. While the film draws inspiration from several real-life incidents and covert operations of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), it is officially classified as a work of fiction by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
The plot loosely references geopolitical conflicts, terrorism, and Indian intelligence operations, but characters and events are fictionalized. For example, Ranveer Singh’s character, Hamza Ali Mazari, is an undercover RAW agent whose identity as Jaskirat Singh Rangi is entirely created for dramatic storytelling.
Although the film incorporates elements from Operation Lyari and the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, it blends fact and fiction to create a high-stakes spy thriller. The filmmakers have emphasized that the story is not a biopic of any real person.
Dhurandhar Plot Overview
Dhurandhar is divided into eight chapters, each detailing the undercover operation and the rise of the Karachi underworld:
- The Price of Peace – Indian intelligence negotiates with terrorists after the 1999 IC-814 hijack.
- Stranger in the Land of Shadows – RAW agent Hamza enters Karachi, blending into the Lyari underworld.
- The Bastard King of Lyari – Hamza infiltrates gangster Rehman Dakait’s gang.
- Bullets and Roses – Political alliances and gang rivalries intensify.
- The Jinn – Hamza uncovers illegal firearms and counterfeit-currency operations.
- The Devil’s Guardian – Planning and execution of major covert operations.
- The Butterfly Effect – The 26/11 Mumbai attacks shock the intelligence network.
- Et tu Brutus – Hamza eliminates Rehman and consolidates power to target bigger threats.
The film intricately showcases spy tactics, political maneuvering, and high-octane action sequences, offering a cinematic glimpse into the complexities of intelligence operations.
Main Cast of Dhurandhar
Dhurandhar features an ensemble cast of Bollywood heavyweights:
- Ranveer Singh as Hamza Ali Mazari / Jaskirat Singh Rangi: The undercover RAW agent.
- Akshaye Khanna as Rehman Dakait: Gang leader and political aspirant.
- Sanjay Dutt as SP Chaudhary Aslam: Pakistani police officer targeting Lyari gangs.
- R. Madhavan as Ajay Sanyal: Director of IB, based on Ajit Doval.
- Arjun Rampal as Major Iqbal: ISI officer involved in terrorism.
- Sara Arjun as Yalina Jamali: Political daughter and Hamza’s love interest.
- Rakesh Bedi as Jameel Jamali: Senior politician in Lyari.
The supporting cast, including Manav Gohil, Danish Pandor, and Saumya Tandon, adds depth to the narrative, making the depiction of Karachi’s criminal and political underworld immersive.
Dhurandhar Songs and Soundtrack
The soundtrack of Dhurandhar has been widely praised, composed by Shashwat Sachdev with lyrics by Irshad Kamil. Key tracks include:
- Dhurandhar (Title Track) – Featuring Hanumankind and Jasmine Sandlas; a remake of the Punjabi classic Na Dil De Pardesi Nu.
- Ishq Jalakar (Karvaan) – Recreated from the Hindi qawwali Na To Karvan Ki Talash Hai from Barsaat Ki Raat (1960).
- Gehra Hua – Released just days before the film, adding intensity to the narrative.
The music complements the action-packed sequences and emotional scenes, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
Dhurandhar Controversies
Despite its success, the film faced several controversies:
- Banned in Pakistan – Reportedly for being “anti-Pakistan,” although the film was one of the most pirated movies there.
- Family Objections – The families of Major Mohit Sharma and Chaudhary Aslam expressed concerns about the portrayal of real-life inspirations.
- Cultural Sensitivity – Ranveer Singh faced backlash for mimicking the Deva ritual from Kantara: Chapter 1, which was seen as disrespectful to Tulu traditions.
- Political Criticism – Pakistani politicians criticized the depiction of figures like Benazir Bhutto and Nabil Gabol.
These controversies increased the film’s visibility and curiosity among audiences, contributing to its strong box office performance.
Dhurandhar Box Office Collection
Dhurandhar performed exceptionally well at the box office:
- Domestic Collection: ₹762.14 crore
- Overseas Collection: ₹197.91 crore
- Worldwide Total: ₹960.05 crore
It became the highest-grossing A-rated Indian film of all time and one of the top 10 highest-grossing Indian films overall. Its overseas performance was remarkable, especially in the US, UK, and Australia.
Dhurandhar Streaming and Home Media
The digital streaming rights for both parts of the franchise were acquired by Netflix for ₹285 crore, making it widely accessible for global audiences.
Critical Reception
Critics gave mixed-to-positive reviews:
- Bollywood Hungama: 3.5/5 – “Well-made, ambitious, with outstanding performances.”
- Times of India: 3.5/5 – “Power-packed Karachi mafia thriller with immersive world-building.”
- Hindustan Times: 3/5 – “Lengthy yet loaded spy drama, with excellent performances by Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna.”
Some criticism focused on its lengthy runtime and pacing, but the action, cinematography, and storytelling were widely appreciated.
Dhurandhar Sequel
The sequel is scheduled for release on 19 March 2026, continuing the story of Hamza’s covert operations and the geopolitical intrigue surrounding India-Pakistan relations. Fans can expect higher stakes, expanded locations, and more action.
FAQs About Dhurandhar
1. Is Dhurandhar a real story?
No, it is a fictional spy thriller inspired by real events.
2. Was Dhurandhar banned in Pakistan?
Yes, reportedly for being “anti-Pakistan.”
3. Is Dhurandhar a hit movie?
Yes, it grossed over ₹960 crore worldwide.
4. Is Dhurandhar coming in two parts?
Yes, the second part will release in March 2026.
5. What are the famous songs from Dhurandhar?
“Dhurandhar (Title Track)”, “Ishq Jalakar (Karvaan)”, and “Gehra Hua”.
Why Dhurandhar Became So Popular
Several factors contributed to Dhurandhar’s success:
- Strong Ensemble Cast – Stellar performances by Singh, Khanna, and Dutt.
- High Production Value – Cinematic visuals, action sequences, and music.
- Real-Life Inspirations – Blending fact with fiction created intrigue.
- Controversy and Buzz – Legal disputes and cultural criticisms increased interest.
- Sequel Appeal – Audiences are eager for the continuation of the story.
Conclusion
Dhurandhar stands out as a landmark in Indian spy action cinema. With a combination of real-life inspired plotlines, stellar performances, gripping action sequences, and a memorable soundtrack, the film captivated audiences both domestically and internationally. While controversies and runtime criticisms sparked debate, they also amplified its cultural impact and commercial success.
As the franchise prepares for its second installment, fans and cinephiles eagerly await the next chapter in the thrilling saga of Hamza Ali Mazari and the covert operations of Indian intelligence.