Why members of Sikh community filed an FIR against Dhurandhar 2 makers? Controversy explained

Aditya Dhar’s blockbuster spy thriller Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which has already crossed the $100-million global mark, is now facing fresh trouble. Members of the Sikh community have lodged an FIR at Mumbai’s Mulund Police Station accusing the film’s makers of disrespecting sacred Gurbani.

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The complaint, filed by Gurjyot Singh Keer — president of Sikhs in Maharashtra and a Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader — targets director Aditya Dhar, lead actor Ranveer Singh, and co-star R. Madhavan. The bone of contention is a scene in which Madhavan’s character, Intelligence Bureau Director Ajay Sanyal, recites the powerful verse from Guru Gobind Singh’s Dasam Granth — “Siraso pehchaniye jo Lade Deen ke Heth” — while allegedly smoking a cigarette during a conversation with Ranveer Singh’s character.

Community members argue that Gurbani is divine and sacred, not ordinary dialogue. Pairing it with smoking, they say, shows “blatant disrespect” and “ignorance” towards Sikh faith and history. Keer strongly condemned the depiction on social media, urging the Sikh community to protest peacefully with black flags if the team fails to issue a sincere apology to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the community at large.

Watch the video here!

In response, R. Madhavan released a video clarification on Instagram. He assured viewers there was “a slight misunderstanding” and emphasised that director Aditya Dhar had specifically instructed him to extinguish the cigarette well before delivering the sacred lines. “No smoke comes out of my mouth, nor is there any cigarette or smoke visible in the frame,” Madhavan stated, adding, “Hum pure Sikh community ke saath hain. Aur hum unka bahut aadar karte hain.” He also mentioned his regular visits to the Golden Temple before film releases to underline his respect for the community.

The film, released on March 19, continues its strong box-office run despite the row. While some see it as creative liberty in a fictional spy thriller, others view the scene as insensitive. The FIR has reignited debates on artistic freedom versus religious sentiments in Indian cinema.

As the matter is now with the police, the industry watches closely for further developments. The makers are yet to issue an official statement beyond Madhavan’s personal clarification.