R Madhavan reacts to Dhurandhar actors being labelled Sanghis: 'How is it wrong to be an Indian?'

R Madhavan (Pic/X)

This year has been amazing for R Madhavan, with multiple achievements. He won praise for his role as Ajit Doval in Dhurandhar and even received the Padma Award. While Dhurandhar was praised, a section of the audience also called it a propaganda film. R Madhavan has responded to the criticism surrounding Dhurandhar, after a section of viewers labelled the film as propaganda and accused its cast of promoting a political narrative.

R Madhavan on Dhurandhar being called propaganda

In an interview with Galatta Plus, Madhavan was asked how many people viewed Dhurandhar as a "propaganda" film and how actors in such movies often end up being labelled as "Sanghis" for being pro-Indian government. Reacting to it, he said, "My point is that everybody is a product of their conditioning. Right from the time I was a child, I was taught that my country is most important and what we do for our country is important."

Madhavan added that he has never spoken negatively about any political party, politician, or political leader on his social media or in his interviews. "Till date, no political party has asked me or hinted that I join them or do publicity for them at the state or national level. When I read such comments, I feel they are saying it out of some frustration, but it doesn't affect my decision-making."

In the past, he also faced criticism during Rocketry: The Nambi Effect, as it showcased "too much Indian tradition and customs." Reacting to such opinions, he said, "How is it wrong to be an Indian? Why can't I show that I'm Indian? We are only showcasing what happened. I am not saying this as a political statement - basically, I don't understand this. In Dhurandhar, we have shown what happened in Pakistan - how is it propaganda? In Rocketry, we have shown what Nambi sir is and says in real life. We have not manufactured it. How can I be honest to the story when I feel afraid of who he really is? If G.D. Naidu is an atheist, I have to be true to the character. I'm not showing him praying. I'm an actor; my job is to portray what it is."

About GD Naidu biopic

R. Madhavan's upcoming biographical drama GDN, based on the life of renowned inventor and industrialist GD Naidu, has received a U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ahead of its theatrical release on August 7. GDN chronicles the extraordinary journey of Gopalswamy Doraiswamy Naidu, widely regarded as one of India's greatest inventors and an influential industrial pioneer. The film aims to bring his remarkable contributions to science, engineering, and entrepreneurship to a wider audience.