Filmmaker Tigmanshu Dhulia has criticised the storytelling in Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar, questioning whether its central premise qualifies as a compelling story, writes Indian Express.
Speaking at an event organised by The Wire on the state of the media and film industry, Dhulia argued that the film’s plot could be reduced to a simple action-driven premise.
“If someone asks you about the story of Dhurandhar, you can’t really explain it. There is a guy who goes to Pakistan and creates chaos there. Is that a story?” he said.
Dhulia used his criticism of Dhurandhar to raise a broader concern about the state of storytelling in Hindi cinema. He argued that original stories are becoming increasingly difficult to find, while filmmakers often hesitate to experiment because they fear audiences may not accept their work.
“The stories are finished in films. Those who tell stories are also finished, and those who want to tell stories aren’t allowed to do so,” he said.
According to Dhulia, the industry increasingly relies on established formulas instead of encouraging distinctive ideas. He linked this trend to what he described as the effects of extreme capitalism, saying it has gradually reduced individuality not only in cinema but also in society.
He compared the situation in filmmaking with changes in fashion and urban development, arguing that people and places are increasingly beginning to look alike.
Dhulia pointed to his hometown Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, as an example. He said the city was once recognised for its distinctive character but now resembles many other cities, with similar malls, cars and urban landscapes.
He described this loss of individuality as a consequence of the prevailing political and economic system.
Dhulia’s remarks, however, drew criticism on social media, with several users accusing the filmmaker of being bitter towards the successful franchise.
Dhurandhar, written and directed by Aditya Dhar, stars Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi, Gaurav Gera and Danish Pandor, alongside several supporting actors.
