Dhurandhar has released on Netflix. Many viewers are talking about it as the OTT version has some edited scenes, which has created mixed reactions online
After drawing massive crowds in theatres, Dhurandhar has now made its way to Netflix. The spy thriller began streaming on January 30, 2026, opening the doors for audiences who missed it on the big screen. As expected, the digital release has brought the film back into public conversation—this time for reasons beyond just its story.
Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film marks the first chapter of a planned two-part saga. Known for his intense and patriotic storytelling, Dhar sticks to a serious and gritty tone throughout the film. From the opening sequence, Dhurandhar makes it clear that it is not meant to be a light watch.
A spy mission filled with risk
Set in 2009, the film follows an undercover Indian intelligence officer tasked with infiltrating Karachi’s criminal and political circles. His mission is simple on paper but deadly in execution—to stop a major terror plot before it unfolds. Living under a false identity, he must survive in a world where one mistake can cost him everything.
While the story is fictional, it draws inspiration from real events, which gives it a grounded and unsettling feel. Rather than relying only on action, the film spends time exploring fear, loyalty, ambition, and the mental toll of life in the shadows.
Performances that hold the film together
Ranveer Singh takes on the role of Hamza, delivering a controlled and intense performance. His physical transformation and restrained acting have been widely praised, with many calling it one of his most demanding roles so far.
Akshaye Khanna stands out as the antagonist, bringing a quiet menace to the screen. Supporting performances by R. Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Arjun Rampal add depth to the narrative and help maintain tension throughout the film.
Big scale, long runtime
At over three and a half hours, Dhurandhar is longer than most Hindi films. Some viewers appreciated the detailed storytelling, while others felt the length tested their patience. Still, the large action set pieces, strong visuals, and background score helped keep audiences engaged.
Shot across multiple locations in India and abroad, the film benefits from a grand visual scale. The technical quality plays a key role in creating a tense and immersive atmosphere.
Box-office success before OTT release
Released in theatres on December 5, 2025, Dhurandhar quickly became a box office powerhouse. The film earned more than ₹1,000 crore in India and crossed ₹1,300 crore worldwide, placing it among the biggest hits in Indian cinema.
Although critics were divided, audience response remained strong. The mix of action, emotion, and political drama appealed to a wide range of viewers.
Netflix release and viewer disappointment
Netflix acquired the digital rights and released the film in Hindi, along with dubbed versions in Telugu and Tamil. The OTT release expanded the film’s reach, especially among regional and international audiences.
However, fans soon noticed that the streaming version was not the same as the theatrical cut. Several scenes and dialogues were edited or muted, and the runtime was reduced. This led to disappointment, with many viewers questioning why censorship was needed on a streaming platform. Social media quickly filled with complaints and criticism.
Also read: Top 20 Horror-Thriller Movies to Watch on OTT
Ongoing controversies
The film has also faced backlash over its political themes. Some groups accused it of presenting a biased narrative, while others objected to specific dialogues. These issues led to bans in certain countries and forced the makers to make selective changes.
Despite restrictions in some regions, the film reportedly saw widespread piracy. During promotions, Ranveer Singh also faced criticism over a cultural reference and later issued an apology. These controversies kept Dhurandhar in the spotlight long after its release.
Following the success of the first film, the makers have announced Dhurandhar Part 2: The Revenge, scheduled to release on March 19, 2026, in multiple languages. Fans are now hoping the sequel will address concerns raised during the OTT release.
Now streaming on Netflix, Dhurandhar continues to divide opinion. Loved by some and criticised by others, the film has clearly made an impact. Its journey shows how a powerful story can keep audiences talking long after the final scene.
[Prateeksha Thakur] is a seasoned journalist known for [her] sharp analysis and clear communication. At Newsisland, [she] focus on political reporting, offering readers a nuanced understanding of complex issues.
