Dhurandhar Review: Ranveer Shines, Akshaye Khanna Terrifies in Cross Border Spy Thriller

Udaipur, Dec 06, 2025: About six years ago, director Aditya Dhar showed the strength and determination of India’s armed forces in Uri: The Surgical Strike, which was based on the surgical strike carried out in Pakistan after the Uri attack. Now, with Dhurandhar, he once again brings a story inspired by real events to the big screen. This time, he goes deeper into the India-Pakistan conflict, highlighting decades of tension, cross-border attacks, and the strategic pressure that shaped the nation’s response.

The film begins with major incidents like the Kandahar hijacking and the Parliament attack. It shows how India’s limited political options at the time encouraged more terrorist activities from across the border. Soon, the intelligence agencies prepare for a strong and decisive answer. This is where the film builds the foundation for Operation “Dhurandhar” a mission designed to strike at the heart of Pakistan’s terror network.

The story follows Indian agent Hamza Ali Mazari (Ranveer Singh), who enters Pakistan through Afghanistan. His mission is not only to infiltrate but also to establish control in the region. In Lyari, Hamza gets help from an Indian agent. Using patience and sharp observation—his strongest weapons in the intelligence world—he begins his dangerous journey.

Strong Characters and Rising Tension

Among the Baloch people, Rahman is protected by local leader Jameel Jamali (Rakesh Bedi), who uses criminals for elections. SP Chaudhary Aslam (Sanjay Dutt) menawhile is trying to catch Rahman Dakait (Akshaye Khanna). Rahman also works with ISI Major Iqbal (Arjun Rampal) to supply weapons. During this time, Hamza finds out about the planning of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Even after informing Indian agencies, they fail to stop it.

This breaks Hamza even more. He becomes more dangerous. Meanwhile, he falls in love with Jameel’s daughter, Yalina (Sara Arjun). The story then follows how Hamza moves ahead with his mission with Yalina’s help.

Aditya Dhar’s research and hard work show clearly. Even with many characters, he handles each one carefully. The film also explains Pakistan’s fake currency network. Scenes showing people celebrating the Mumbai attacks or the clash between Rahman and Hamza create strong tension. The scenes where terrorists react to TV news during the attacks are disturbing.

However, the film only briefly mentions the masterminds behind 26/11, like Lashkar-e-Taiba and David Headley, which feels incomplete. Some violent scenes are very graphic and shocking.

Performances and Technical Work Shine

Mukesh Chhabra’s casting is excellent. Ranveer Singh speaks less but impresses with his intense look and attitude. His long-hair look suits the character, and his action scenes are gripping. Since the story has two parts, more of his past will be shown in the next part.

Akshaye Khanna delivers a powerful performance as Rahman Dakait, showing anger, cruelty, and emotion. Arjun Rampal, as Major Iqbal, makes the audience angry with his cold reactions to the Mumbai attacks. Rakesh Bedi is a surprise package in the role of a clever politician. Sanjay Dutt fits well as the tough SP. Sara Arjun looks perfect for her role, and R. Madhavan’s full impact will be seen in the next part.

The cinematography by Vikas Naulakha is impressive, showing the Afghan border and Pakistani areas realistically. The editing could have been tighter. The background score and classic songs keep the energy alive. The music by Shashwat Sachdev and lyrics by Irshad Kamil stand out.

In the end, Hamza says, “This is the new India. We will enter their homes and kill them.” The second part of the film will release on March 19 next year.