'Dhurandhar 2' Stirs Controversy; Religious Leaders Claim Film Incites Division
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New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) The launch of the film 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' has incited new debate, as religious figures express apprehension regarding its themes and community representation. On Thursday, the head of the All India Muslim Jamaat, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, alongside Chief Mufti of Uttar Pradesh, Maulana Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain, criticized the filmmakers, asserting that they are exacerbating tensions between Hindus and Muslims for profit.
In a conversation with IANS, Maulana Barelvi remarked, "After viewing 'Dhurandhar 2', it appears that the narrative presented is rooted in untruths. Everything constructed upon these distorted tales is equally misleading. Certain individuals within the film industry, notably directors, seem solely motivated by financial gain. In their pursuit of wealth, they are fostering discord between Hindus and Muslims, threatening the existing peace and unity between the two communities."
Maulana Husain echoed these sentiments, questioning the credibility of films that address sensitive issues without proper fact-checking.
He stated to IANS, "Our nation possesses its own institutions and judiciary. Unless validated by these bodies, it is inappropriate for anyone to create films that target a specific group. I want to emphasize that terrorism is devoid of religion.
"Both terrorism and crime stem from psychological disturbances; they can be committed by anyone. Yet, evidence is crucial, and investigations should be managed by the judiciary and relevant agencies. Creating films that target Muslims especially, in defiance of the judiciary, is both unconstitutional and illegal."
Regardless of the backlash, 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge', directed by Aditya Dhar and featuring Ranveer Singh, has had a robust performance at the box office. The film held preview screenings on March 18 prior to its official premiere on March 19, reportedly raking in ₹75 crore globally on its debut day, according to trade analyst Sacnilk.
Nonetheless, the cancellation and postponement of multiple preview screenings in India could necessitate refunds, potentially impacting overall earnings.
The film has garnered attention not only for the actors' performances but also for the controversies it has ignited. From legal challenges and public outcry to discussions about its political implications, 'Dhurandhar' continues to dominate headlines.
Additionally, claims have arisen from the family of late Major Mohit Sharma, an Ashoka Chakra award recipient, alleging that the film draws inspiration from his life and covert missions.
Critics from the Baloch community have also voiced objections regarding the representation of Baloch characters and armed groups.
Moreover, commentators argue that the film heavily emphasizes nationalist themes, with its portrayal of cross-border conflicts and intelligence operations perceived by many as politically driven and propagandistic rather than merely artistic.