Dhurandhar Controversy: Director Suparn S Varma Defends Film’s Violence & Calls for Fair Criticism of Hindi Cinema
ranveer Singh’s upcoming action thriller, Dhurandhar, is already sparking debate – not for its anticipated action sequences, but for the intensity of its violence.While the trailer has garnered excitement, a segment of online viewers have voiced criticism regarding its graphic nature.Director Suparn S Varma, fresh off the success of his critically acclaimed film HAQ, has now weighed in on the controversy, arguing a perceived “double standard” in how audiences perceive violence in Hindi cinema versus international films.
Speaking at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 in goa, Varma passionately defended the artistic choices made in Dhurandhar, and broader issues surrounding the reception of Hindi action films. But what exactly is fueling this debate, and what does Varma’s response reveal about the evolving landscape of Indian cinema?
The Core of the controversy: Is Dhurandhar’s Violence Justified?
The criticism leveled against Dhurandhar centers on the perceived gratuitousness of its violence. Some viewers argue that the trailer showcases brutality that exceeds artistic necessity, potentially exploiting shock value. This sentiment is particularly strong given the film’s positioning as a mainstream action release.
however, Varma counters this argument by pointing to the global acceptance of violence in similar genres. He specifically referenced Indonesian action films like The Raid franchise, the British series Gangs of London, and acclaimed works from Korean and Japanese cinema. “When a Marco comes out, everybody loves the violence,” Varma stated, highlighting the disparity in critical reception. “We see The Raid 1, The Raid 2… Violence exists; it has existed for eons, and violence is beautiful if you do it cinematically.”
Varma’s point isn’t to dismiss concerns about on-screen violence, but to question why Hindi cinema is held to a different standard. He emphasizes that within the action genre, exploring the darker aspects of human conflict – including the depiction of violence - is often integral to storytelling. “So what’s wrong with it if the story demands it? If you are going to show a character torturing someone, then as a filmmaker, it’s my job to show innovative methods of torturing. That’s what that villain is doing in the first place. This is the nature of the genre I’m making.”
Beyond Dhurandhar: A Call for Consistent cinematic Standards
Varma’s comments extend beyond the immediate controversy surrounding Dhurandhar. He argues for a broader shift in how audiences and critics approach Hindi cinema. He believes the industry needs a global audience that appreciates cinema “across languages,across the world,” and that filmmakers shouldn’t be judged by differing standards.
“We need to start celebrating Hindi films for what thay are and supporting our filmmakers,” Varma urged. “I think it’s very, very important.We cannot have a different lens for different films. It needs to come from a place of passion for cinema, and cinema across languages, across the world.”
This sentiment resonates with a growing movement within the Indian film industry to push boundaries and create content that can compete on a global stage. dhurandhar, with its ambitious action sequences and star-studded cast (Ranveer Singh, Sanjay dutt, R. Madhavan, and Akshaye Khanna), represents a significant step in that direction.
What We Know about Dhurandhar & HAQ
Dhurandhar is directed, written, and produced by Aditya Dhar, known for his work on Uri: The Surgical Strike. The film is slated for theatrical release on December 5th. The plot details remain largely under wraps, but the trailer suggests a high-octane action narrative with complex characters and intense conflicts.
Simultaneously occurring, Suparn S Varma’s latest directorial venture, HAQ, is garnering widespread acclaim.Inspired by the landmark legal battle of Shah Bano Begum, the courtroom drama offers a powerful and nuanced exploration of women’s rights and social justice. HAQ, starring yami Gautam and Emraan Hashmi, also received a screening at IFFI 2025, further solidifying Varma’s reputation as a filmmaker willing to tackle challenging and relevant themes.
The Future of Action in Indian Cinema
The debate surrounding Dhurandhar highlights a crucial turning point for Indian cinema. As filmmakers increasingly experiment with genre conventions and strive for international recognition
