R Madhavan Reveals Dhurandhar Stars Broke Down After Filming 26/11 Scene

Actor R Madhavan has shared an emotional behind-the-scenes moment from the espionage thriller Dhurandhar, revealing that co-stars Akshaye Khanna and Arjun Rampal broke down after filming a sequence recreating the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The scene, one of the film’s most talked-about moments, left a deep emotional impact on the cast.

Speaking about the experience, Madhavan said the emotional reaction occurred after filming wrapped, when the gravity of the scene truly set in. The actors reportedly became overwhelmed as the reality of the events they had portrayed resonated deeply.

Why the Scene Was Emotionally Challenging

In the film, Khanna and Rampal portray Pakistani characters whose scripted reactions appear celebratory in the aftermath of the attacks. Despite being part of the narrative, performing such roles proved emotionally distressing.

Madhavan explained that both actors lived through the traumatic period and witnessed the national grief and shock that followed the 2008 attacks. Recreating those moments brought back powerful memories, making it difficult to detach emotionally once filming concluded.

A Powerful Moment on Set

According to Madhavan, the atmosphere on set was tense and emotionally charged. After the director called cut, the emotional façade dropped and the actors struggled to hold back their feelings.

He recalled that both actors cried uncontrollably, describing the moment as evidence of their deep emotional investment in the story. For Madhavan, the experience reinforced the significance of the film and the responsibility of portraying sensitive historical events with authenticity.

About the Film Dhurandhar

Released on December 5, 2025, Dhurandhar became one of the year’s major commercial successes. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the espionage thriller features Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, and Sanjay Dutt.

The story follows an Indian intelligence operative embedded within Karachi’s criminal underworld as he works to dismantle a terror network threatening national security. The film received attention for its gritty realism and layered performances.

Sequel Set to Expand the Story

Following the film’s strong reception, a sequel titled Dhurandhar 2 is scheduled for release on March 19. The next installment will continue the story of undercover operative Hamza Ali Mazhari and is expected to release in multiple languages, reflecting the franchise’s growing scale and ambition.

The emotional response from the cast highlights the lasting impact of historical tragedies and underscores the responsibility filmmakers carry when recreating sensitive real-life events.