While Ranveer Singh's latest action-packed venture 'Dhurandhar' continues its strong performance at the box office, a significant portion of online discussion has shifted from the film's earnings to a compelling visual debate. Fans and critics alike are drawing parallels between Singh's current character, Hazma Ali Mazari, and his previous iconic and terrifying portrayal of Alauddin Khilji in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Padmaavat'. The internet is buzzing with side-by-side comparisons, sparking heated discussions about whether the two looks are too similar.
The Artist Behind the Looks Speaks Out
Amidst this growing chatter, the creative mind responsible for crafting both these distinct visages has finally addressed the claims. Renowned makeup and prosthetics designer Preetisheel Singh, who worked on both 'Padmaavat' and 'Dhurandhar', has broken her silence. In a recent explanation, she detailed the fundamental conceptual differences between the two characters, asserting that any perceived similarity is superficial.
Preetisheel Singh clarified that while both characters are portrayed by Ranveer Singh and belong to a rugged, historical aesthetic, their core design principles are opposites. Alauddin Khilji's appearance was meticulously built to exude raw power, unchecked dominance, and a terrifying aura of royalty. Every element, from the intense kohl-rimmed eyes to the fierce beard, was engineered to make him look like an unstoppable force of nature and a ruthless ruler.
Hazma's Design: A Testament to Struggle and Realism
In stark contrast, the design for Hazma Ali Mazari in 'Dhurandhar' was rooted in an entirely different ethos. According to the artist, Hazma's look is intentionally built around the themes of struggle, survival, and gritty realism. The character is not a king asserting dominance but a man shaped by his harsh circumstances and environment.
"The brief for Hazma was never about power or dominance," Preetisheel Singh explained, highlighting the key distinction. "It was about showcasing a life lived on the edge, with every scar and texture telling a story of survival. The realism in his prosthetics, skin texture, and weathering is meant to reflect his journey, not his throne." This approach focuses on creating a believable, lived-in character rather than a symbol of terrifying authority.
Box Office Success Amidst the Debate
The discussion around the character's look has done little to dampen the film's commercial prospects. As reported, 'Dhurandhar' is performing robustly at the box office, particularly dominating the North American market and outpacing other releases. The film has generated massive action-spy buzz across India, even though it faced some regional censorship challenges in the Gulf countries.
The online debate, fueled by viral social media posts, ultimately underscores Ranveer Singh's powerful screen presence and his ability to leave a lasting impression with transformative roles. However, the insight from the makeup artist provides a crucial lens through which to view the characters, shifting the focus from cosmetic resemblance to narrative intent and character depth.
Ultimately, while audiences may see a familiar ferocity in Ranveer Singh's eyes, the creative team insists that the souls of Khilji and Hazma are worlds apart. One was designed to rule and instill fear, the other to endure and overcome.
