Dhruv Rathee Vows to Challenge ₹300 Crore Film as Dhurandhar Breaks Box Office Records

Popular YouTuber Dhruv Rathee Promises Video to “Destroy” Blockbuster Film

YouTuber and political commentator Dhruv Rathee has ignited a firestorm of debate with his recent announcement promising a video that would “destroy a ₹300 crore propaganda film,” widely interpreted as a reference to the box office sensation “Dhurandhar.”

In a provocative post on social media platform X on Saturday, Rathee wrote, “It takes 1 YouTube video to destroy a ₹300 crore propaganda film. And I guarantee you that the MELTDOWN after this video will be so bad. They’re not ready for this. Releasing tonight ;).” While he didn’t explicitly name “Dhurandhar,” the timing and context of his remarks left little doubt about the target of his criticism.

“Dhurandhar,” directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, has been shattering box office records since its release in early December. The spy action thriller, which also features prominent Bollywood actors Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, and Sanjay Dutt, has reportedly crossed the ₹500 crore mark, placing it among the highest-grossing Indian films of 2023.

The film’s commercial success has been accompanied by intense debate regarding its themes, presentation, and political undertones. Industry observers note that films touching on nationalist sentiment have become increasingly common in Indian cinema, often generating both critical acclaim and controversy.

This isn’t Rathee’s first time criticizing the film or its director. In November, following the release of the movie’s trailer, he condemned Dhar’s creative choices, particularly the graphic violence depicted. Rathee controversially compared the film’s intense scenes to “ISIS beheadings,” arguing that presenting such content as entertainment was problematic.

“His lust for money is so unhinged that he is willingly poisoning the minds of the young generation, desensitizing them to gore and glorifying unimaginable torture,” Rathee stated at the time. He also called on India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to scrutinize the film more thoroughly, highlighting what he perceived as inconsistent standards in the industry’s approach to graphic content.

Rathee’s latest announcement has generated significant reaction online, with many fans of the film dismissing his criticism. One social media user sarcastically commented, “I went to PVR this morning to watch Dhurandhar, but they said they have cancelled all the shows because Rathee’s video is coming. It’s happening pan-India.”

Others suggested that Rathee’s video would only serve to generate more publicity for the film. “Who’s gonna tell him that his video will only market the movie more, no matter what facts he comes up with in the video, the makers already clarified it’s fiction, he’d make sure Dhurandhar keeps on running,” wrote another user.

The clash highlights the growing intersection of entertainment, politics, and social media in India’s cultural landscape. Content creators like Rathee, who has built a substantial following through political commentary and fact-checking videos, increasingly challenge mainstream narratives presented in commercial entertainment.

Media analysts point out that such public disputes can actually benefit both parties—controversial films gain additional attention and discussion, while commentators like Rathee increase their visibility and engagement metrics.

“Dhurandhar” follows the dangerous mission of an Indian spy and has been praised for its performances and technical aspects. Despite the controversy—or perhaps partly because of it—the film’s success has already prompted the announcement of a sequel. “Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge” is scheduled for release on March 19, 2026, suggesting the filmmakers remain confident in their creative vision despite criticism.

As the debate continues, both the film and Rathee’s promised critique highlight the evolving relationship between traditional entertainment media and digital commentary in shaping public discourse in contemporary India.