'Dhurandhar 2' sparks controversy

The release of the film 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' has triggered fresh controversy, with religious leaders raising concerns over its content and portrayal of communities. On Thursday, the All India Muslim Jamaat chief Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi and Chief Mufti of Uttar Pradesh (Shahi Mufti UP) Maulana Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain accused film-makers of fuelling divisions between Hindus and Muslims for commercial gain.

Speaking to media, Maulana Barelvi said, "Look, after watching the film 'Dhurandhar 2', it feels that everything shown in it is based on false stories. And everything built on such fabricated stories is also false. Some people associated with the film industry, especially directors, seem to have only one motive: To make money. In the race for money, they are creating divisions between Hindus and Muslims and trying to create disputes. They want to end the harmony and brotherhood between Hindus and Muslims."

Echoing similar concerns, Maulana Husain questioned the legitimacy of films dealing with sensitive subjects without verification.

He told, "First of all, our country has its agencies and the judiciary. Until the judiciary or these agencies confirm or take action, no one has the right to make such images or films targeting a specific community. I would also like to clarify that terrorism has no religion.

"Terrorism and crime are a form of mental disorder; anyone can commit them, but there must be proof and evidence. For all of this, there is judiciary and also agencies who do all the investigations. But, going against the court, agencies and making such films especially targeting Muslims, is unconstitutional and unlawful."

Further criticism came from members of the Baloch diaspora, who objected to the portrayal of Baloch characters and insurgent groups.

Additionally, critics have argued that the film leans strongly towards nationalist themes, with its depiction of cross-border tensions and Intelligence networks being viewed by some as politically charged and propagandist rather than purely cinematic.