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‘Dhurandhar 2’ Sparks Debate Amid Box Office Success, Veteran Actor Defends Film Against Propaganda Claims
Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi has dismissed allegations that the blockbuster sequel ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ is propaganda, emphasizing instead that audiences should focus on its cinematic merits. The film, starring Ranveer Singh, has generated significant buzz while simultaneously drawing criticism from some quarters.
“I don’t believe in politics. I think it’s cinema… Everybody has the right to like or dislike a film. But I don’t think it’s right to put a film into some kind of a category… That it’s pro-establishment or anti-establishment. The verdict is that people are loving it,” Bedi stated in a recent interview.
Bedi, who reprises his role as Jameel Jamali in the sequel, has been a fixture in Indian cinema and television since the late 1970s. Known for iconic performances in classic shows like ‘Srimaan Srimati’ and films such as ‘Chashme Buddoor,’ the actor has found a fresh wave of appreciation from audiences for his work in the ‘Dhurandhar’ franchise.
The film has become one of the most talked-about Bollywood releases of the year, with audiences flocking to theaters since its March 19 premiere. Directed by Aditya Dhar, ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ boasts an ensemble cast including Sara Arjun, R. Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Arjun Rampal alongside lead actor Ranveer Singh.
Comparing ‘Dhurandhar 2’ to other politically-themed films, Bedi highlighted what he believes sets this production apart. “Recently, there was a film on Indira Gandhi and (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi, these films didn’t run for even two days. Dhurandhar’s writing, screenplay is great. People haven’t seen a film of this scale ever,” he noted, adding that audiences are truly “celebrating cinema” with the sequel.
The veteran actor expressed amazement at the unprecedented public response. “This is a mad frenzy which is going on. I’ve never seen something like this in my career at least. Many people have not seen this kind of a frenzy, madness, and euphoria for a film,” Bedi remarked.
The film’s cultural impact has extended beyond Indian borders, a fact that particularly delighted Bedi. He referenced a viral video featuring Finland’s President Alexander Stubb and Bank of England Governor Mark Carney discussing the film during a morning run. “What could be a bigger compliment? I was elated to find out that a film that I’m a part of is being talked about at this level,” Bedi said.
The actor also shared an anecdote about director Aditya Dhar’s vision during production. “Aditya used to say one thing constantly while making the film. He would say, ‘We are going to raise the bar.’ After I saw the film, I said, ‘You have not raised the bar, you have broken the bar,’ because people are going to see the movie baar-baar (again and again).”
The debate around ‘Dhurandhar 2’ reflects a broader trend in Indian cinema, where big-budget nationalist-themed films have become both commercially successful and politically divisive. Industry analysts note that such films often generate controversy that can enhance their visibility and commercial appeal, regardless of critical reception.
Despite—or perhaps because of—the controversy, ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ continues to draw audiences, cementing its status as one of Bollywood’s most talked-about releases of recent years. As the film’s commercial success grows, the conversation about its political implications seems likely to continue alongside appreciation for its cinematic achievements.
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11 Comments
It’s good to see veteran actors like Bedi standing up for artistic expression and creative freedom in filmmaking. Dismissing a successful movie as ‘propaganda’ seems unfair.
Rakesh Bedi makes a fair point – it’s up to the audience to decide if they enjoy a film, not to label it as ‘pro’ or ‘anti’ anything. Movies should be judged on their artistic merit, not partisan politics.
Well said. As long as the film is entertaining and well-made, the political leanings of the director shouldn’t be the main focus.
Interesting to hear Bedi’s perspective. While some may see political agendas in films, the audience should have the final say based on the quality of the storytelling and performances.
Bedi makes a fair point – the success of ‘Dhurandhar 2’ suggests audiences are more interested in a good story than political messaging. Filmmakers should focus on quality over propaganda.
The success of ‘Dhurandhar 2’ shows there is strong public interest in these types of films, regardless of any perceived propaganda. Audiences want engaging stories, not political sermons.
Interesting to see the debate around ‘Dhurandhar 2’ and the director’s response to ‘propaganda’ claims. I think audiences should judge the film on its own merits rather than political agendas.
The back-and-forth over ‘Dhurandhar 2’ highlights the politicization of media and entertainment. Bedi’s comments remind us to judge films as art, not as political statements.
Agreed. As long as a film is well-crafted and entertaining, the director’s political leanings shouldn’t overshadow the audience’s enjoyment of the work.
I’m curious to see ‘Dhurandhar 2’ and form my own opinion. Bedi makes a reasonable case that the film should be evaluated on its own cinematic merits, not ideological grounds.
I respect Bedi’s stance that ‘Dhurandhar 2’ should be judged on its cinematic merits rather than its perceived political agenda. Audiences are savvy enough to form their own opinions.