In a recent statement from abroad, veteran actor Anupam Kher has expressed profound admiration for Aditya Dhar’s film “Dhurandhar,” celebrating its commercial success as a powerful rebuke to critics who labeled it propaganda.

Despite having no personal connection to the production, Kher revealed that the film’s success brought him an unexpected sense of peace and pride. “I don’t have a role in this film. I am not connected to anything. But I don’t know why, with the success of this film, my heart is very peaceful,” Kher stated in a video message that has since gained significant attention across social media platforms.

The actor specifically praised director Aditya Dhar for his authentic approach to filmmaking, noting that Dhar avoided conventional formulas in favor of creative conviction. “As a filmmaker, he has not followed any pattern or formula. No formula. Just conviction,” Kher remarked. He also acknowledged Dhar’s background as a Kashmiri from a family that experienced persecution, suggesting this personal history may have informed the film’s perspective.

“Dhurandhar” has emerged as a box office phenomenon, breaking records and garnering widespread critical acclaim. According to Kher, what makes this success particularly meaningful is the diverse audience response. The film appears to have transcended the criticism that initially surrounded it, with viewers from various demographics embracing its narrative.

Kher’s comments directly addressed the controversy that has shadowed both “Dhurandhar” and his previous project, “The Kashmir Files.” Both films faced accusations of serving as political propaganda rather than authentic storytelling. The actor clearly views “Dhurandhar’s” commercial and critical triumph as vindication against such claims.

“This proves that there was a clique of people who were behind proving propaganda to the film,” Kher stated. “This is the same clique who tried to prove propaganda to The Kashmir Files. And I say, 30% of them succeeded. They debated. But Dhurandhar has slapped such people.”

The discussion highlights an ongoing tension in Indian cinema regarding politically charged narratives and how they are received by critics versus general audiences. Films touching on sensitive historical or cultural issues frequently become battlegrounds for broader ideological debates in India’s increasingly polarized media landscape.

Industry observers note that “Dhurandhar” represents a growing trend of commercially successful films that engage with nationalistic themes while maintaining mainstream appeal. This balance has proven challenging for many filmmakers to achieve, making Dhar’s success particularly noteworthy within the industry.

Kher concluded his message with a pointed comment directed at critics: “Don’t teach us what propaganda is. You are not going to decide what is a propaganda film. Don’t make us feel small. That is what the audience is saying to people like that.”

The film has continued to generate conversation beyond its theatrical performance, with celebrities like Ranveer Singh publicly showing support. Singh recently reacted to international music star Nick Jonas sharing a dance video featuring a song from “Dhurandhar,” further extending the film’s cultural reach.

As “Dhurandhar” continues its theatrical run, its impact appears to extend beyond mere entertainment, touching on questions of artistic expression, historical representation, and the relationship between commercial cinema and political discourse in contemporary India. The film’s reception suggests an audience increasingly willing to engage with complex narratives that some critics might dismiss as simplistic or agenda-driven.