Ranveer Singh's cinematic spectacle 'Dhurandhar' continues its triumphant run in theaters, now stretching beyond forty days. The film has amassed a staggering Rs 1328 crore in global box office collections, with earnings still flowing in steadily. This commercial powerhouse has firmly established itself as a major hit, yet it has sparked intense discussions about its political undertones, which some viewers find polarizing.
Karan Johar's Unapologetic Admiration
In a recent conversation featured on the IIMUN YouTube channel, filmmaker Karan Johar addressed questions about 'Dhurandhar's' political stance. He responded with clear enthusiasm, stating, "I unabashedly, unapologetically, and absolutely outstandingly loved Dhurandhar. I watched every moment with awe, captivated by the craft of filmmaking. The storytelling impressed me deeply, especially how it was structured into distinct chapters. I appreciated that the narrative gaze turned inward rather than outward, offering its own unique commentary on politics."
Addressing the Political Controversy
When discussing the film's political dimensions, Johar clarified his personal stance. "I actually wasn't offended by the politics of the film," he explained. "I understood its direction completely. Cinema should provoke agreement or disagreement—that's its essence. No ideological issue in the film bothered me. I focused on the craftsmanship and cinematic excellence, and I absolutely adored it. Aditya Dhar possesses a distinctive voice, and he has emerged as a powerful, unique filmmaker. Leaving the theater, I felt it was a nuanced piece of work."
Celebrating Cinematic Craftsmanship
Johar drew parallels to Sandeep Reddy Vanga's films, noting how the director's fresh perspective captivated him. He couldn't ignore the exceptional quality on display. Watching 'Dhurandhar' made him ponder his own creative capabilities, but he quickly realized that while skilled in various aspects, this specific style doesn't align with his personal preferences. "The craft of Dhurandhar is what I carried home with me, along with the immensely powerful performances," Johar emphasized.
Industry Reactions and Upcoming Clash
Not everyone shares Johar's viewpoint. Actor Hrithik Roshan previously expressed that he didn't fully agree with the film's politics. Despite the divided opinions, 'Dhurandhar' maintains its box office dominance. Meanwhile, anticipation builds for 'Dhurandhar 2,' scheduled for release on March 19. This sets the stage for a significant box office confrontation with Yash's upcoming film 'Toxic.'
The film's success story underscores how artistic merit and commercial appeal can coexist, even amidst heated debates. As 'Dhurandhar' continues to draw audiences, it reaffirms Bollywood's ability to generate both revenue and robust conversation.
