Aditya Dhar’s latest directorial venture, “Dhurandhar”, has not only captured audiences at the box office but also drawn attention from public figures and celebrities for its nuanced storytelling and ensemble cast. The Ranveer Singh-starrer, which released on December 5, 2025, has already surpassed the ₹200 crore mark in India, highlighting its commercial and critical success within just the first week of its theatrical run. Among those praising the film is Iltija Mufti, daughter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, who lauded the film for its compelling narrative, casting, and especially its depiction of women.

Iltija Mufti’s Endorsement

Taking to social media platform X, Iltija Mufti shared her thoughts on the movie, emphasizing her appreciation for how women characters were portrayed as integral to the storyline rather than mere props—a departure from the trope often seen in action-packed Bollywood cinema. She wrote, “Much outrage over Dhurandhar but I quite liked the movie and found it interesting. The casting especially is perfection. Women, for once, as is the case in most violent Bollywood movies, weren’t used as props. Very well made.”

Her comments come in the midst of ongoing debates and discussions surrounding the film, which some sections of audiences had critiqued for its intensity and portrayal of action sequences. Yet, the endorsement from a public figure like Iltija Mufti lends weight to the film’s balanced approach to storytelling, highlighting both strong character arcs and action-driven narrative.

About Dhurandhar

Dhurandhar is an action-packed spy thriller, centering on a covert intelligence officer, portrayed by Ranveer Singh, who operates within a complex political landscape. The film weaves an intricate tale of espionage, underworld dealings, informants, and high-stakes operations, where each character’s choices and allegiances influence the narrative’s unfolding.

The movie’s story explores the nuanced lives of criminal networks and intelligence operatives, their intersecting ambitions, betrayals, and covert missions, creating a rich, layered backdrop that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish. The plot delves deep into themes of loyalty, power, and sacrifice, presenting an action thriller that is as intellectually stimulating as it is visually compelling.

Ensemble Cast and Crew

One of the film’s most praised aspects is its ensemble cast, bringing together some of Bollywood’s most seasoned actors. Alongside Ranveer Singh, the film features Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, Akshaye Khanna, and R. Madhavan in pivotal roles. Supporting performances by Sara Arjun and Rakesh Bedi further strengthen the film’s narrative depth, each character contributing meaningfully to the central plot rather than serving as peripheral additions.

The cinematography by Vikash Nowlakha has been highlighted for capturing both the intensity of action sequences and the subtleties of character-driven moments. The editing by Shivkumar V Panicker ensures a tight, fast-paced narrative, seamlessly transitioning between high-octane chase sequences, espionage operations, and quieter, character-driven moments. The musical score by Shashwat Sachdev complements the cinematic experience, amplifying tension during suspenseful moments and enhancing the emotional weight of dramatic sequences.

Strong Female Characters

A recurring point in Iltija Mufti’s praise is the portrayal of women in Dhurandhar. Unlike many contemporary Bollywood action films, where female characters are often relegated to peripheral roles or romantic subplots, Dhar’s film positions women as central to the storyline, giving them agency and meaningful involvement in the narrative. This approach has been widely appreciated for its subtle yet significant departure from traditional gender dynamics in high-octane thrillers.

By integrating women meaningfully into a genre that often sidelines them, Dhurandhar sets a precedent for action films to blend intensity with thoughtful representation, demonstrating that strong female characters can coexist with thrilling espionage and action.

Critical and Commercial Reception

The film has received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. While some debate over its high-intensity action sequences and mature themes, the general reception has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding character development, plot structure, and technical execution. The ₹200 crore box-office milestone achieved within the first week underscores the film’s mass appeal and ability to resonate with both mainstream and discerning audiences.

Celebrity endorsements, such as Iltija Mufti’s, add an additional layer of credibility, highlighting the film’s capacity to engage viewers beyond conventional action film demographics. Such recognition is especially noteworthy given the polarized reactions to big-budget action thrillers in recent years.

Significance in Bollywood Landscape

Dhurandhar exemplifies a growing trend in Indian cinema, where filmmakers are balancing commercial viability with thoughtful storytelling. By incorporating complex character arcs, morally ambiguous plots, and inclusive representation, Aditya Dhar demonstrates that action thrillers can appeal to wide audiences without compromising narrative depth.

The film also reflects a broader evolution in audience expectations, where viewers increasingly appreciate films that challenge stereotypes, present multi-dimensional characters, and offer more than just spectacle. Dhar’s focus on blending entertainment with narrative substance is indicative of this shift in Bollywood, positioning Dhurandhar as a benchmark for future high-stakes action films.

Looking Ahead

As Dhurandhar continues its theatrical run, the film is likely to surpass ₹250 crore and potentially reach new records, given its current momentum and positive word-of-mouth. Discussions around the film’s strong female representation, intricate espionage plot, and ensemble performances are expected to continue in media and social circles, further solidifying its position in contemporary Bollywood cinema.

For Aditya Dhar, the success of Dhurandhar cements his reputation as a director capable of delivering both commercial hits and critically respected narratives, while actors like Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, and R. Madhavan continue to demonstrate their versatility and ability to elevate a film through nuanced performances.

Conclusion

In a cinematic landscape often dominated by spectacle over substance, Dhurandhar has managed to strike a balance that resonates with audiences and critics alike. The praise from Iltija Mufti, particularly for its casting and respectful portrayal of women, underscores the film’s ability to challenge conventional norms while delivering compelling entertainment.

With strong performances, meticulous direction, and a gripping storyline, Dhurandhar is not just a box-office triumph but also a cultural touchstone, signaling the increasing sophistication of Bollywood action thrillers. For fans and critics alike, it is a film that entertains, engages, and leaves a lasting impression—demonstrating that high-octane cinema can also be thoughtful, inclusive, and very well made.