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Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga has ignited a fresh industry debate with his spirited defense of “Dhurandhar: The Revenge,” challenging what he calls selective outrage and hypocrisy within Bollywood.
After viewing the film in Hyderabad alongside actor Prabhas, Vanga took to social media platform X to share his unfiltered thoughts on both the film and the industry’s reaction to it.
“Writers & actors built careers on propaganda, and the industry stayed quiet like cats. Now the same clan mock Dhurandhar,” wrote Vanga, known for his own controversial blockbusters. “You don’t get to call yourself liberal if your first instinct is to Mock. Don’t know when truth started getting labeled as propaganda… strange times.”
The “Animal” director didn’t stop at criticism, offering high praise for both “Dhurandhar: The Revenge” and its creators. He directly addressed director Aditya Dhar and lead actor Ranveer Singh, urging them to stand strong against detractors, before declaring the film “outstanding.”
Dhar responded with equal warmth, highlighting the mutual respect between the two filmmakers who have both created commercially successful yet polarizing cinema.
“Mere Pyaare Sandeep, I genuinely love the way you stand your ground and give it back when it matters. There’s a real honesty and belief in that and it’s something I truly respect,” Dhar wrote. “I’ve always looked up to how you back your cinema without any doubt or noise. That kind of conviction reminds all of us to trust our voice and just go for it.”
This exchange represents more than just filmmakers supporting each other’s work. It underscores growing tensions in Bollywood regarding narrative choices, political undertones, and the increasingly blurred lines between entertainment and messaging in commercial cinema.
This isn’t Vanga’s first public endorsement of the Dhurandhar franchise. When the first installment released in December 2025, he praised its masculine storytelling and direction, noting the film “moves with dominance & fierce” and highlighting its “zero chaos” approach to filmmaking.
The franchise has proven its commercial might, with “Dhurandhar: The Revenge” accumulating an impressive worldwide gross of Rs 1,653.67 crore since its March 19, 2026 release. The film’s ensemble cast, featuring industry heavyweights Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal alongside Singh, has helped establish it among India’s most successful cinematic ventures.
Industry analysts suggest the public exchange between Vanga and Dhar reflects a growing divide in Indian cinema between filmmakers who embrace controversial narratives and those who criticize them. Both directors have experienced their share of criticism for their storytelling approaches, making their mutual support particularly notable.
The controversy surrounding “Dhurandhar: The Revenge” extends beyond creative differences to touch on sensitive political and social themes that have increasingly defined Indian cinema in recent years. Critics have questioned certain narrative choices, while supporters praise the film’s unapologetic storytelling and technical execution.
For audiences, the debate highlights the complex relationship between entertainment and social responsibility in contemporary filmmaking. The franchise’s commercial success, despite—or perhaps because of—its controversial elements, demonstrates the continued public appetite for bold, divisive storytelling.
As “Dhurandhar: The Revenge” continues its remarkable box office run, the conversation initiated by Vanga’s comments seems likely to persist, raising important questions about creative freedom, industry politics, and the evolving nature of Indian cinema.
The exchange between these two commercially successful directors may also signal the emergence of a new alliance among filmmakers who share similar perspectives on storytelling, potentially influencing future projects and industry dynamics in the coming years.
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14 Comments
Filmmaking is a powerful medium, and creators have a responsibility to thoughtfully consider the narratives they present. I hope this dialogue leads to a more constructive engagement on these complex topics.
The ‘propaganda’ label is a heavy one, and I can understand the filmmakers’ pushback. At the same time, it’s important to consider the potential impact of the narratives being presented.
The industry’s reaction seems quite polarized. I’d be interested to hear more from both sides to better understand the broader context and implications here.
Agreed, getting a more balanced perspective would be helpful in assessing the merits of the claims on both sides.
This is a complex issue with valid points on both sides. I’m curious to see how the discussion evolves and whether it leads to any meaningful change in the industry.
Absolutely, these conversations are important for the industry to grapple with and find a path forward that balances artistic freedom and social responsibility.
This debate highlights the ongoing tension between artistic expression and social responsibility in the film industry. I hope it leads to a more thoughtful, inclusive dialogue on these issues.
The ‘propaganda’ label is a heavy one. I’m curious to learn more about the specific concerns and merits of this particular film. Reasonable people can disagree on where to draw the line.
Fair point. It’s always worth looking into the nuances before rushing to judgment on these sensitive issues.
Interesting industry debate. I can see both sides – the need for honest, unbiased storytelling, but also concerns about propagandistic narratives. It’s a complex issue without easy answers.
I agree, these topics can be divisive. I hope the filmmakers can find a constructive way to address the concerns while staying true to their creative vision.
Criticism and praise often go hand-in-hand in the arts. I hope the filmmakers can find a way to address the concerns while staying true to their creative vision.
It’s heartening to see the mutual respect and open dialogue between these filmmakers. Navigating these sensitive issues requires nuance and goodwill on all sides.
Agreed, that spirit of collaboration and understanding is crucial for making meaningful progress on these complex topics.