Why Are Pakistanis Embracing a Bollywood Spy Thriller? Dhurandhar, a gripping spy action thriller directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, has taken India by storm. But here's where it gets intriguing: the film is also resonating deeply with audiences across the border in Pakistan. In a recent interview with Live Hindustan, actor Naveen Kaushik, who plays the character of Donga in the film, shed light on this unexpected phenomenon. Kaushik believes the film’s success in Pakistan stems from its nuanced portrayal of complex issues, avoiding the pitfalls of generalization and stereotypes. Dhurandhar tells the story of an Indian operative infiltrating the gangs of Karachi’s Lyari Town, blending fiction with real-life figures like gangsters Rehman Dakait (Akshaye Khanna) and Uzair Baloch (Danish Pandore), and Karachi SP Aslam Chaudhary (Sanjay Dutt).
The Secret Sauce: No Blanket Criticism
Kaushik highlights a crucial aspect of the film’s appeal: “We’ve noticed that Pakistani viewers appreciate how the film doesn’t vilify their people or the Muslim community. Instead, it focuses on corrupt individuals who exploit situations to create conflicts, like the attacks on India.” This approach, he explains, has struck a chord with Pakistani audiences, who recognize the film’s effort to differentiate between troublemakers and the broader population. “They’re saying, ‘Yes, these are the people who’ve caused problems in our country too,’” Kaushik adds. “They relate to the idea that these individuals should be questioned, not an entire nation.”
A Bold Departure from Stereotypes
This is the part most people miss: Dhurandhar deliberately avoids painting Pakistan or its people with a broad brush. By targeting corrupt individuals rather than demonizing a community, the film fosters empathy and understanding. Kaushik emphasizes, “That’s why the film has received so much love—it’s not about blaming a country, but about holding accountable those who misuse power.”
Controversy & Counterpoints
But here’s where it gets controversial: While many applaud the film’s balanced approach, some critics argue that even focusing on individual corruption risks perpetuating negative narratives. Is it possible to highlight wrongdoing without inadvertently fueling stereotypes? And does the film’s portrayal of real-life figures cross the line into exploitation? These questions invite a deeper discussion about the responsibilities of filmmakers when tackling sensitive cross-border issues.
What’s Next?
With Dhurandhar dominating the box office in India and gaining traction in Pakistan, the stage is set for its second part, scheduled for release in March 2026. As the film continues to spark conversations, one thing is clear: its impact extends far beyond entertainment. It challenges audiences to think critically about complex geopolitical issues while fostering a sense of shared humanity.
Your Turn: What Do You Think?
Does Dhurandhar succeed in its attempt to address sensitive topics without resorting to stereotypes? Or does it risk oversimplifying complex issues? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!
