The blockbuster ‘Dhurandhar 2’, fresh off its theatrical run, has become a lightning rod for political discourse in New Delhi’s corridors of power. By dramatizing Atiq Ahmad’s transformation from underworld don to lawmaker and his purported ISI connections, the film has prompted a spectrum of reactions — from endorsements to outright condemnation.
Samajwadi Party’s Ruchi Vira, the Moradabad MP, faced the media spotlight but chose deflection over debate. Offering Eid felicitations, she professed no knowledge of the film before hastening away from the cameras. Her reluctance speaks volumes amid the growing scrutiny.
Support came vociferously from Bihar’s Ram Kripal Yadav, who defended the film’s authenticity based on his personal encounters with Atiq during his political stint. ‘Cinema reflects life’s harsh truths, and this one’s packing houses,’ he said, extending best wishes to the filmmaking team amid reports of black-market ticket sales.
Not everyone agrees. Fellow SP leader Rajeev Rai decried it as a BJP propaganda vehicle, alleging the party commissions such projects to malign rivals with concocted tales. JD(U)’s Neeraj Kumar urged the censor board to ensure no criminal glorification occurs, balancing artistic freedom with societal responsibility.
Shaina NC of Shiv Sena called for controversy-free entertainment, while UP’s Om Prakash Rajbhar stressed that box-office success drives creative choices, not political agendas. This clash of opinions reveals deeper fault lines in how India’s political class grapples with cinematic interpretations of their world, potentially influencing future portrayals and public narratives.