Dhurandhar” has made a significant mark on the Indian film industry, becoming the top-grossing film of 2025. Released on December 5, the spy action thriller exceeded expectations with minimal promotional efforts, quickly earning a spot in the ₹1000 crore club within just 21 days of its debut.
Renowned filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma recently shared his insights on “Dhurandhar,” particularly highlighting its innovative approach directed by Aditya Dhar. In a post on his X account, Varma reflected on how filmmakers evolve through both their experiences and the influence of their peers. He noted that “Dhurandhar” exemplifies how an intense, character-driven narrative can effectively work on a larger scale, differing from traditional filmmaking approaches.
Varma emphasized the unique elevation of the film’s protagonists, commenting on how it introduces a fresh perspective on flawed heroes who are defined by the consequences of their actions. This contrasts with his earlier belief in depicting heroes without glorification, as seen in his iconic works.
One of the critical lessons Varma cited for filmmakers across India is the impact of violence in storytelling. He argued that violence should resonate with the viewer on an emotional level, rather than serve merely as entertainment. The film challenges conventional action choreography, suggesting a need for more organic and impactful representations of action.
Additionally, Varma commented on narrative structure, stating that “Dhurandhar” pushes the boundaries of the traditional three-act format. He noted that even fragmented narratives can engage audiences effectively, a realization that can serve as a valuable lesson for emerging filmmakers.
He concluded with an important observation regarding scale in film production. While he previously believed that scale should be portrayed subtly, “Dhurandhar” demonstrates that grandness can harmonize with restraint to evoke profound emotional responses. Varma acknowledged that growth as a filmmaker often involves learning from others, and he sees merit in adapting to contemporary cinematic styles.
“Dhurandhar” features Ranveer Singh in the lead role as Hamza Ali Mazari, an Indian spy tasked with infiltrating a Baloch gang in Pakistan’s Lyari. The film also features a talented cast, including Akshaye Khanna as gang leader Rehman Dakait, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun, and Rakesh Bedi. Following its success, a sequel titled “Dhurandhar 2” is set to be released on March 19, 2026.