Film Dhurandhar controversy: Objection raised on makers, reaction of Swara Bhaskar’s mother

New Delhi. Actress Swara Bhaskar’s mother and film scholar Ira Bhaskar has criticized Aditya Dhar’s film ‘Dhurandhar’, saying that the film presents Pakistan and the Muslim community in a negative and violent manner. This statement of Ira Bhaskar went viral on social media and is giving rise to debate among the viewers and users.

What did Ira Bhaskar say
Ira Bhaskar shared his views in a discussion organized on Harsh Mander’s YouTube channel ‘Caravan-e-Mohabbat’. Harish Wankhede, Assistant Professor of Political Science Center of Jawaharlal Nehru University, was also present in this panel. During the discussion, he gave the example of films like ‘Punjab 95’ and ‘Phule’ which have faced censorship and release delays in recent years.

Ira said that Aditya Dhar is a technically proficient filmmaker and the film is cinematically good. But he questioned whether a film’s art could be seen apart from its ideological message. He said that the film’s narrative creates a world in which Muslims are mostly shown as violent and aggressive. Along with this, Pakistan has also been presented as a violent nation.

Narrative made from selected incidents
Ira Bhaskar also argued that films based on true events often show select incidents to support a particular ideological viewpoint. In his opinion this selective storytelling style determines how audiences will interpret political and social issues.

Preparations for ‘Dhurandhar 2’
Meanwhile, ‘Dhurandhar 2’ directed by Aditya Dhar is going to be released on the big screen on March 19, 2026. Paid preview shows will also be organized on its first day i.e. March 18. The ticket price for this film is Rs 3100, and despite this the seats in many theaters are already filled.

Ira Bhaskar’s statement is further intensifying the debate regarding this film. While on one hand the technical and entertainment value of the film is being praised, on the other hand its ideological message is being questioned. It shows how mainstream cinema can impact society and politics and influence the way audiences think.

Thus, the debate around the release of ‘Dhurandhar’ and ‘Dhurandhar 2’ continues regarding the entertainment and political impact of the film, and the curiosity of fans to watch both the films is increasing.