Priyadarshan Challenges 'Propaganda' Label for Aditya Dhar's 'Dhurandhar 2'

Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan robustly defends Aditya Dhar's 'Dhurandhar 2' against propaganda claims, questioning audience discernment.

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GulfWire Verified Public Figure • 30 Mar, 2026 Chief Editor
Mar 30, 2026 • 3:40 PM  24  0
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Priyadarshan Challenges 'Propaganda' Label for Aditya Dhar's 'Dhurandhar 2'
“Priyadarshan Challenges 'Propaganda' Label for Aditya Dhar's 'Dhurandhar 2'”
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30 Mar 2026
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Key Highlights

  • Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan has strongly supported director Aditya Dhar amidst controversy surrounding his film, 'Dhurandhar 2'.
  • Priyadarshan publicly questioned the validity of 'propaganda' accusations, asking if viewers are 'fools'.
  • The remarks intensify the ongoing debate about artistic freedom and political narratives in Indian cinema.

Mumbai, India – Renowned filmmaker Priyadarshan has stepped into a burgeoning cinematic debate, staunchly defending director Aditya Dhar and his film, 'Dhurandhar 2', against allegations of it being a propaganda piece. Priyadarshan's sharp retort questions the discernment of the audience, stating, 'Are those watching Dhurandhar 2 fools?'.

The controversy arises as 'Dhurandhar 2' faces scrutiny for its thematic content, which some critics and sections of the audience have labelled as politically motivated or designed to promote a specific narrative. These claims are not new in the Indian film landscape, where several recent productions have ignited similar discussions.

Priyadarshan's Candid Defense

Speaking on the matter, Priyadarshan, a director celebrated for his diverse filmography, expressed his belief in the audience's intelligence. He argued that labelling a film as propaganda undermines the viewer's ability to think critically and distinguish between art and agenda.

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His statement implies that if a film were purely propaganda, it would require a passive, unthinking audience to succeed. He suggests that the continued viewership and discussion around such films indicate a more complex interaction than a simple intake of biased content.

The Aditya Dhar Context

Aditya Dhar, known for his directorial venture 'Uri: The Surgical Strike', has often explored themes rooted in national events and real-life scenarios. His storytelling approach typically blends entertainment with narratives that resonate with contemporary societal discourse.

The allegations against 'Dhurandhar 2' place Dhar at the centre of a familiar storm, where filmmakers grapple with the fine line between artistic expression, historical depiction, and the potential for their work to be perceived as ideological messaging.

The Broader Propaganda Debate in Cinema

The discussion around 'propaganda' films is a recurring theme in global cinema, but it has gained particular prominence in India over recent years. Critics often point to certain films as vehicles for political narratives, while filmmakers frequently defend their work as a reflection of reality or an exploration of challenging subjects.

This ongoing dialogue underscores the powerful influence of cinema as a medium, capable of shaping public opinion and stimulating national conversations. Priyadarshan's intervention highlights the frustration felt by some in the industry when films are reduced to a singular, often politically charged, label.

The debate surrounding 'Dhurandhar 2' reflects a larger ideological battle being waged in cultural spaces, where content is frequently dissected not just for its artistic merit but for its perceived political leanings. This environment creates a challenging landscape for creators aiming to tell compelling stories without being drawn into partisan disputes.

Filmmakers like Aditya Dhar often find themselves navigating these complex waters, with their creative choices subjected to intense public and critical examination.

FAQ

Who is Priyadarshan?

Priyadarshan is a highly acclaimed Indian film director, screenwriter, and producer, predominantly working in Malayalam and Hindi cinema. He is known for his versatile films, including comedies, thrillers, and dramas.

What is the controversy surrounding 'Dhurandhar 2'?

Aditya Dhar's film 'Dhurandhar 2' is facing accusations from some critics and segments of the audience who claim it promotes a specific political narrative, labelling it as 'propaganda'. Priyadarshan has publicly defended the film against these allegations.

For more detailed news coverage and updates on Indian cinema, visit gulfwire.in

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