There is a particular kind of electricity generated by a packed cinema hall in India — the whistles that greet a hero's slow-motion entry, the applause that rolls like thunder, followed by the hush before a twist lands. For some time, that electricity seemed to fade as streaming platforms thinned crowds and big-budget films faltered. However, in December 2025, the spy thriller Dhurandhar broke the mold.
By the end of its run, it grossed about $155 million worldwide, ranking among Hindi cinema's biggest hits. As a result, multiplexes like PVR Inox reported a significant rise in footfall, up nearly 9% year-on-year thanks to Dhurandhar.
The sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge, opened last week to unprecedented demand, selling over 1.5 million advance tickets and showcasing three dozen near round-the-clock shows daily. At nearly four hours long, the sequel is positioned as bigger and louder, creating history for its box office performance.
Experts note that the film, like its predecessor, continues to fuel a mix of admiration and concern. Critics highlight the skilled direction and production quality while questioning the overt nationalism presented in the film’s narrative. Some argue that it simplifies complex geopolitics and leans heavily into propaganda, showcasing a narrative that is increasingly resonant with the audience's sentiments.
Viewers describe the experience as 'paisa vasool', meaning they received value for their money, reflecting the enthusiasm that follows these high-stakes cinematic productions.
Despite mixed reviews, the film has become a cultural touchstone, reflecting broader political landscapes within India and offering an insightful look into societal sentiments. It stands as a testament to the resurgence of the big-screen experience amidst a tumultuous landscape of cinema experiencing shifts towards streaming.
Not far behind, global recognition of Dhurandhar has appeared, with leaders like Finland's President mentioning the movie during public engagements. This outreach signals that the film is not merely a blockbuster but a piece of cultural dialogue, deeply intertwined with the themes of patriotism, identity, and the dynamics of international relations.
As the film reshapes the Bollywood landscape, creating record-breaking exhibitions of cinematic prowess, it simultaneously reminds audiences of the complexities and narratives that movies can weave in contemporary society.
By the end of its run, it grossed about $155 million worldwide, ranking among Hindi cinema's biggest hits. As a result, multiplexes like PVR Inox reported a significant rise in footfall, up nearly 9% year-on-year thanks to Dhurandhar.
The sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge, opened last week to unprecedented demand, selling over 1.5 million advance tickets and showcasing three dozen near round-the-clock shows daily. At nearly four hours long, the sequel is positioned as bigger and louder, creating history for its box office performance.
Experts note that the film, like its predecessor, continues to fuel a mix of admiration and concern. Critics highlight the skilled direction and production quality while questioning the overt nationalism presented in the film’s narrative. Some argue that it simplifies complex geopolitics and leans heavily into propaganda, showcasing a narrative that is increasingly resonant with the audience's sentiments.
Viewers describe the experience as 'paisa vasool', meaning they received value for their money, reflecting the enthusiasm that follows these high-stakes cinematic productions.
Despite mixed reviews, the film has become a cultural touchstone, reflecting broader political landscapes within India and offering an insightful look into societal sentiments. It stands as a testament to the resurgence of the big-screen experience amidst a tumultuous landscape of cinema experiencing shifts towards streaming.
Not far behind, global recognition of Dhurandhar has appeared, with leaders like Finland's President mentioning the movie during public engagements. This outreach signals that the film is not merely a blockbuster but a piece of cultural dialogue, deeply intertwined with the themes of patriotism, identity, and the dynamics of international relations.
As the film reshapes the Bollywood landscape, creating record-breaking exhibitions of cinematic prowess, it simultaneously reminds audiences of the complexities and narratives that movies can weave in contemporary society.
