The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has officially cleared Aditya Dhar's much-anticipated film 'Dhurandhar' for a theatrical release on 5 December. The film, headlined by Ranveer Singh, received its certification shortly after the Delhi High Court directed the board to review concerns raised by the family of late Major Mohit Sharma. However, the swift approval has reignited a debate, with the martyr's family expressing disappointment over not being given a prior screening.
Swift CBFC Action Follows Court Directive
The certification process moved rapidly after judicial intervention. The Delhi High Court, hearing a plea from Major Sharma's parents seeking a temporary stay, advised the CBFC to re-examine the matter and even consult the Indian Army if necessary before making a final decision. Within a day, the CBFC granted the film a clearance, officially categorising it as a work of fiction.
Speaking to the media, Madhur Sharma, brother of the late army officer, acknowledged the board's promptness but highlighted a lack of transparency. "I am sure they've followed the process and they were very quick to take a decision, which is good," he stated. "We don't know what data CBFC has relied on but I am sure they have done their due diligence. They have said that it is a work of fiction so I hope that a disclaimer will be duly added."
Family's Core Grievance: Lack of Prior Screening
Despite the green signal, the Sharma family's primary contention remains that they should have been shown the film before its certification. Madhur Sharma believes this step could have prevented the widespread confusion and speculation currently circulating on social media platforms.
"I just feel that a screening could have been organised for the parents so that any misconceptions floating on social media could have been clarified," he explained. He emphasised that those who knew Major Sharma intimately are best positioned to judge any potential similarities. "People who have lived their entire life with him are in a better position to tell if anything in the film replicates his life, rather than someone outside the ecosystem."
Legal Options and a Plea for Empathy
The family has not ruled out further legal recourse. Madhur Sharma indicated that they are awaiting legal counsel before deciding their next step, including the possibility of filing a rejoinder. He clarified that the family's intent is not driven by any desire for personal gain or compensation.
"There is no benefit the parents are looking for," he asserted. "We want people to take a sympathetic, empathetic perspective. This is not just for us but for every family that has lost a son (in military operations). We just want due diligence." His appeal was for simple honesty: if the film draws from his brother's life, an acknowledgment would suffice, and if not, a clear statement to quell the rumours.
The controversy initially erupted online following the trailer's release, where netizens began drawing parallels between Ranveer Singh's character and Major Mohit Sharma's heroic life. Madhur had earlier pointed out these similarities online, seeking clarity. He also addressed the timing of the legal petition, noting it was filed in the 36–48 hour window before director Aditya Dhar publicly denied any direct link to the martyr's story.
Featuring a massive ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun, and Rakesh Bedi, 'Dhurandhar' is now set to arrive in cinemas as scheduled on 5 December, amidst continued calls for respect and clarity from a grieving family.
