Dhurandhar is a bold, high-octane film that blends espionage, history, and emotion with Ranveer Singh’s captivating performance at its core. This gripping narrative offers a rare cinematic insight into Pakistan’s environment and life, making the film an unforgettable experience for audiences unfamiliar with this backdrop.
MUMBAI: Dhurandhar is a sprawling and ambitious spy thriller that stitches together a decade of India’s turbulent history with style, grit, and unexpected emotional depth. Starting from the infamous Kandahar hijacking in 1999 and culminating in events till August 9, 2009, the film chronicles pivotal incidents like the 2001 Parliament attack and the 2008 Mumbai attacks, with its narrative rooted deeply in intelligence, politics, and human resilience.
What truly distinguishes Dhurandhar from earlier films on terrorism is its exceptional immersion into Pakistan’s culture, geography, and social layers. The story centres around a daring Indian spy, played masterfully by Ranveer Singh, who infiltrates Pakistan via the Afghan border. Under the alias, he rises through the ranks of a notorious gang led by Rehman Dakait, eventually executing critical missions against those threatening India’s security.
Ranveer Singh dominates every frame, delivering a riveting performance with sharp dialogue delivery, compelling expressions, and a commanding screen presence. His portrayal lends a visceral intensity to Dhurandhar, anchoring the film’s vast scope with emotional heft. Akshaye Khanna, as Rehman Dakait, is equally memorable — his portrayal of bitterness towards India is chilling yet layered, leaving a lasting impression.
Supporting performances by Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal add depth to the story. Rampal, in particular, marks a notable return after Rajneeti (2010), overcoming vocal limitations with a strong presence. Rakesh Bedi surprises in an unusually gritty role, demonstrating remarkable range.
Directed and written by Aditya Dhar, the film is structured in multiple chapters, unspooling over 214 minutes that rarely drag. The pacing is tight, keeping audiences engaged from start to finish. Dhar’s direction transports viewers into the film’s world, amplified by Vikas’s stellar cinematography and Shivkumar’s crisp editing. The visuals of Lyari and Karachi are so immersive that they give a documentary-like authenticity. Shashwat Sachdev’s music complements the emotional and high-stakes moments without overwhelming them.
As the first of a two-part saga, Dhurandhar sets the stage brilliantly for its sequel, expected to release during Eid ul-Fitr 2026. If this installment is anything to go by, expectations are justifiably sky-high.
Dhurandhar is a rare blend of masculine energy, brutal honesty, and cinematic finesse — a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a story well told and powerfully performed.
This writeup is contributed by Shavez Latif, a film enthusiast and academician by profession in India.
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