A new Bollywood spy film is generating praise - and unease - in India and Pakistan for its contentious portrayal of the longstanding hostilities between the South Asian neighbours.
'Dhurandhar', which hit cinemas last week, plunges audiences into a high-octane world of espionage, gang wars and patriotic fervour.
Anchored by Bollywood star Ranveer Singh's swaggering performance as Hamza, an Indian spy on a perilous mission in Karachi, the film traces his battles against criminal networks, shadowy operatives and personal demons - all framed against the backdrop of India-Pakistan tensions.
While the action-packed sequences and riveting plot have earned praise from many viewers, the film has also provoked sharp debate over its political messaging and treatment of historical events.
As it builds on Aditya Dhar's previous success with films like 'Uri: The Surgical Strike', 'Dhurandhar' arrives in a politically charged atmosphere after heightened military clashes. Critics are divided: some applaud its ambition while others find its hyper-nationalist tone concerning.
The film's reception in both countries illustrates the enduring impact of Bollywood, which remains immensely popular in Pakistan despite cultural tensions.
