Smriti Irani Defends Dhurandhar, Calls It an Echo of Real Sacrifice and Loss

Smriti Irani has publicly defended Dhurandhar, offering a strong counter to the rising social media debate surrounding the film. In a detailed Instagram post, the actor-politician urged viewers to approach the film not with outrage but with empathy, calling it an emotional reflection of real experiences tied to conflict, sacrifice and national security.

Irani wrote that anyone who has witnessed the aftermath of terrorism or interacted with families of fallen soldiers would recognise the truth that underpins the film’s narrative. She referenced moments such as looking into the eyes of a martyr’s wife, visiting migrant camps in Jammu, walking through abandoned temples in Kashmir and meeting survivors of the Parliament and 26/11 attacks. For such individuals, she said, Dhurandhar is “just a film” — one rooted in lived realities.

Praising director Aditya Dhar, Irani described him as a “craftsperson par excellence” whose rigorous research and sensitivity shaped the film. She highlighted standout performances, calling Akshaye Khanna’s role “a lesson in craft,” praising Ranveer Singh’s intensity and noting Arjun Rampal’s transformation as “a revelation.” She also applauded the music and casting, crediting casting director Mukesh Chhabra for assembling a powerful ensemble.

Irani acknowledged that seeing R. Madhavan portray a character seemingly inspired by NSA Ajit Doval might feel “a tad weird” to those who personally know the real-life counterpart. However, she added that no one else could have captured the quiet strength required for such a role.

Calling Dhurandhar “the echo of lives lived and lost,” Irani encouraged audiences to recognise its emotional and thematic depth rather than respond with negativity. She concluded with a tribute to India’s security forces, writing that the nation remains “forever in debt” to those who have sacrificed their lives in its defence.

Her post comes as discussions around Dhurandhar intensify online, with the film continuing to draw both acclaim for its performances and criticism from some sections of social media.