‘Dhurandhar’ triggers frenzy, sparks paranoia in Pakistan despite ban

New Delhi: The Bollywood film Dhurandhar has reportedly shattered box office records and stirred intense reactions beyond India’s borders, particularly in Pakistan, where it has triggered a wave of curiosity, controversy, and even fear among sections of the public.

Despite being banned in Pakistan and some other Muslim-majority nations, pirated versions of Dhurandhar Part 1 and Part 2 have allegedly spread widely, drawing significant viewership. The film, which portrays covert operations and intelligence activities linked to India’s external intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), has fueled speculation and debate about the realism of its narrative.

Reports and viral social media content suggest that certain viewers in Pakistan have been unsettled by the film’s depiction of undercover agents operating in disguise. In particular, scenes suggesting operatives blending into society under various identities have led to exaggerated fears, with some individuals reportedly becoming suspicious of strangers—even those in vulnerable conditions such as beggars.

A viral video circulating on social media platforms allegedly shows a man, believed to be a beggar, being questioned and asked to produce identification documents by locals. The clip has been widely shared, often accompanied by humorous or sarcastic commentary, reflecting a mix of anxiety and satire among viewers.

Back in India, the film has also sparked debate. While some critics have dismissed its storyline as fictional or exaggerated, others argue that it brings attention to lesser-known aspects of intelligence operations and historical narratives. The film’s commercial success, however, indicates strong audience engagement regardless of the controversy.

Observers note that such reactions highlight the powerful influence of cinema in shaping public perception, especially when dealing with sensitive themes like espionage, national security, and cross-border tensions. While the extent of the reported panic in Pakistan remains difficult to independently verify, the online buzz underscores how entertainment content can transcend borders and ignite unexpected responses.

As Dhurandhar continues to dominate discussions, it also raises broader questions about the intersection of cinema, politics, and public psychology in the digital age.