The song Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke from the upcoming Kannada film KD: The Devil has sparked a controversy over its alleged vulgar lyrics. It triggered outrage on social media and elsewhere and has now disappeared from the official YouTube page. Now, singer Mangli, who has sung the song, took to social media to issue an apology. She also said that a revised version of the song would be released. Sarke Chunar singer Mangli apologises Mangli took to Instagram and wrote in her post, “Out of respect for public sentiment, the song has been removed from all platforms. I sincerely apologise to each and every one of you for the unintended mistake. It was never meant to hurt anyone’s sentiments, and we truly regret the oversight." She further added, “The corrected version of the lyrics has now been updated, and the revised version of the song will be released today evening. We assure you that such a situation will not arise again. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the makers of the film and music director Arjun Janya sir, for whom I have the highest regard." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mangli 🎙️ (@iammangli) Nora Fatehi on controversy Bollywood actor and performer Nora Fatehi on Wednesday finally broke her silence on the controversy. In a post on Instagram alongside a long video, Fatehi said she was thankful for the backlash as it pushed the makers to finally remove the song from social media. She said she had already flagged that the Hindi lyrics were problematic. Fatehi urged the media and social media pages to hold filmmakers accountable when controversies around songs or content arise, rather than directing attention solely at the artists involved. The song has faced criticism from several public figures, including actor-politicians Ravi Kishan and Kangana Ranaut, as well as singer Armaan Malik. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry and the Censor Board, which in turn said it had nothing to do with the matter since the song was released on YouTube. Its action came after it received a complaint alleging that the lyrics of "Sarke Chunar" contain "vulgar, sexually suggestive, and double-meaning" words, which are inappropriate for public consumption, especially for children, according to the proceedings of the case on Tuesday.
18 March,2026 08:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFans of Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar: The Revenge faced disappointment on Wednesday as paid preview shows in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana were reportedly cancelled just hours before their scheduled start. As confusion spread among audiences, the makers addressed the issue, citing technical difficulties and assuring that revised show timings will be updated soon. Dhurandhar makers break silence on cancelled shows The makers issued a statement, writing, “To our dear Dhurandhar family, Dhurandhar is not just a film for us—it is something we have lived with, nurtured, and dreamed of sharing with each and every one of you, together, at the same moment, in every language. Most of our Hindi shows across India are running as scheduled from 5 pm onwards. All of our Tamil and Telugu shows will commence from 9 pm onwards. However, due to unforeseen technical difficulties, our Malayalam and Kannada shows will begin from tomorrow morning.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aditya Dhar (@adityadharfilms) They added, “If the dubbed version you have tickets for is not currently playing at your cinema, you will have the option of a refund or to watch the Hindi version with subtitles instead. We truly apologise for the inconvenience. Your love for this film means the world to us, and we cannot wait to share it with you.” Glitch in Dhurandhar 2 shows Reports suggest that the cancellations are primarily affecting regional dubbed versions and select international screenings, where the required print files failed to arrive in time. The much-anticipated paid previews faced widespread disruption across India, with major chaos reported in Mumbai as well, including verbal altercations between moviegoers and theatre staff. Moviegoer Manjari Varu said, “We came from Gaiety Galaxy to Movie Hub Goregaon East because we were told that the 4:45 and 5:15 shows got cancelled, apparently due to some password not being received at the last minute and some print issues that did not reach the theatres. Single screens were affected the most, as they said, and refunds will be issued. They also mentioned that the 9:00 and 9:30 shows are available, but even that wasn’t certain. So we had to come all the way from Gaiety Galaxy to Hub Goregaon East.” A cinegoer also stated how her show was scheduled at 6:30 pm, but it didn't start till 7 pm. Shankar Jadhav, Goregaon Hub theatre manager also confirmed that the distributor have not sent proper downloaded copy of the film because of which it is delayed. He suggested moviegoers to apply for refund. The film will open during the festive window of Eid, Gudi Padwa, and Ugadi, positioning it for a major box-office debut. In line with its pan-India ambitions, the spy action film will release in multiple languages, including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.
18 March,2026 08:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar 2 is all set to hit the screens. The film is also setting the stage for some other awaited releases of 2026, with their first-look teasers being attached to the film. The makers of Raja Shivaji are set to unveil its much-anticipated first-look teaser in a grand cinematic way. Attached exclusively to Dhurandhar: The Revenge, the teaser will offer audiences a big-screen glimpse into the epic retelling of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life. Raja Shivaji teaser attached to Dhurandhar 2 Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company are set to unveil the powerful first-look teaser of their ambitious historical epic Raja Shivaji, offering audiences an exclusive big-screen experience. The much-anticipated first-look teaser will be attached to the theatrical release of Dhurandhar: The Revenge. The first look of the magnum opus will be available only in theatres, giving audiences the very first glimpse into the grand cinematic retelling of the life and legacy of one of India’s greatest warrior kings, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riteish Deshmukh (@riteishd) Headlined and directed by Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh, Raja Shivaji is mounted on a massive scale and narrates the story of a son who took a sacred vow and rose against formidable powers to lay the foundation of Swarajya. Apart from this, the first look of Cocktail 2 will also be attached to the Ranveer Singh-starrer and will be played along with other previews before the film begins. Apart from this, Junaid Khan’s Ek Din trailer will also be attached to the film. More about Raja Shivaji Bringing together some of the finest creative forces, the film features music by Ajay–Atul and cinematography by internationally acclaimed Santosh Sivan, as the makers aim to present this historic saga as a cinematic spectacle that transcends linguistic boundaries and celebrates India’s rich legacy on a global canvas. Raja Shivaji is set to showcase the legendary lore in cinemas worldwide on May 1, 2026, promising a larger-than-life tribute to courage, honour, and the birth of Swarajya. The film has an eclectic ensemble cast drawn from across the Hindi and Marathi film industries, including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, Genelia Deshmukh, among others.
18 March,2026 06:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentReleased in December 2025, Dhurandhar scripted history at the box office, garnering a global collection of Rs 1,300 crore. Ahead of its sequel hitting the screens, the makers organized a mammoth album launch event in the city, which was elevated by Ranveer Singh’s infectious energy. At the event, Singh thanked the audience for their love and packed a punch with a dialogue from the film, ensuring the sequel will be bigger. Ranveer Singh on Dhurandhar 2 excitement During the music launch, he said the kind of excitement and anticipation they are seeing for the second part is unprecedented. "You helped our film reach a historic milestone, and this was only possible to achieve because of your love and respect. I thank the cinema-going audience across the globe on behalf of our entire team," the actor said. Dhurandhar: The Revenge will be released the day after tomorrow, and everyone has been eagerly wanting to see this film across the world. As a team, we are so humbled and grateful for the response to the first part of the film," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani) At one point during the event, Singh playfully riffed on a well-known dialogue from the first film, declaring with theatrical flair, "Ab Indian cinema ka mustakbil ab 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' tay karega!", drawing loud cheers from the crowd. For the event, Ranveer Singh was seen wearing a stylish, edgy ensemble featuring a black leather biker jacket with asymmetrical zip detailing over a white graphic T-shirt, paired with relaxed-fit black pants. He styled it with thick-framed dark sunglasses and a chunky silver chain necklace. About Dhurandhar 2 Directed as a continuation of the franchise's story, Dhurandhar: The Revenge sees Singh reprise his role as undercover agent Jaskirat Singh Rangi, who operates deep inside the criminal underworld under the alias Hamza Ali Mazari. The sequel's trailer hints at a darker narrative as Rangi navigates a dangerous terror network while attempting to dismantle it from within. The film, directed by Aditya Dhar, features an ensemble cast including Arjun Rampal as Major Iqbal, Sanjay Dutt as SP Chaudhary Aslam, and R. Madhavan as Ajay Sanyal. Director Aditya Dhar has urged audiences to avoid sharing spoilers and stay in their seats until the end credits roll when watching Dhurandhar: The Revenge, teasing a possible post-credits surprise as the film prepares for its worldwide theatrical release on March 19, 2026.
18 March,2026 05:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmid the ongoing controversy surrounding the song Sarke Chunar, the Union government has confirmed that the song has been banned. This comes after widespread criticism over its lyrics and visuals. The Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced the decision in the Lok Sabha while responding to a question raised by Samajwadi Party MP Anand Bhadouria. Ashwini Vaishnaw confirms ban on Sarke Chunar Addressing the questions raised, Vaishnaw said the government had already acted against the song, reiterating that freedom of speech in India is subject to constitutional limits. The minister further emphasised that expression must operate within the framework of reasonable restrictions laid down by the Indian Constitution. During the discussion, Vaishnaw said, "The song has already been banned," adding, "I would like to say this clearly that we should follow the reasonable restrictions imposed by the creators of the Constitution of India on freedom of speech." The minister further referred to the provisions under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, which permit restrictions on freedom of speech in the interest of public order, decency, morality, and other concerns. "Freedom of speech cannot be absolute. It has to be in the context of society and culture. We must follow the reasonable restrictions imposed by the creators of the Constitution. And in that, very carefully, in the coming time, the way things are spreading rapidly today through digital means, in that, for the protection of the society, especially for the protection of children, for the protection of women, for the protection of the deprived groups of the society, whatever hard actions should be taken, the government is ready to take them," Vaishnaw noted. Controversy surrounding Nora Fatehi's Sarke Chunar The controversy erupted after the song featuring actors Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt was released. Critics claimed that the track contained vulgar lyrics and visuals that objectified women. The backlash soon escalated, with several individuals and organisations calling for action against the creators. Multiple complaints were filed demanding an FIR and removal of the track from circulation, which further intensified public debate just days before the matter was raised in Parliament. Haryana Women Commission, Karnataka Women Commission, actor-politician Ravi Kishan, actor-politician Kangana Ranaut, and singer Armaan Malik, among others, have expressed disapproval against the track, calling it objectionable. An advocate has even approached the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) seeking an immediate ban and removal of the song, claiming that its lyrics and visuals are obscene and harmful to minors.
18 March,2026 04:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRajpal Yadav has carved a niche for himself as a promising comic actor in the industry. However, he has been in the news ever since he was sent to Tihar Jail in a Rs 9 crore cheque bounce case. The hearing in the case involving Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav commenced before the Delhi High Court on Wednesday, where the court extended his interim bail till the next date of hearing. Rajpal Yadav’s interim bail extended Rajpal Yadav attended the hearing with his lawyer. After the session, the actor interacted with the media and said, “The next hearing is on April 1. I have complete faith in the judicial system of India. Dudh ka dudh aur pani ka pani nikalne ki puri koshish karenge. (We will try to dig out the truth).” During the hearing, Yadav’s counsel informed the court that a regular bail application had already been filed. The court was told that a substantial portion of the dues had already been cleared. According to the report submitted by the counsel, the actor has paid Rs 4.5 crore to Murli Projects Private Limited, and a further Rs 25 lakh was handed over through a demand draft on the day of the hearing. #WATCH | Delhi | Actor Rajpal Yadav says, "...The next date of the hearing is April 1. I have complete faith in the judicial system..." https://t.co/McqCgFCkiP pic.twitter.com/qJ2slMPfPW — ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2026 Taking note of the payments made, the court observed, "You have paid a substantial amount; therefore, we are not sending you back to jail," and accordingly extended Yadav's interim bail till the next date of hearing. During the proceedings, the court questioned Yadav regarding the loan involved in the dispute. In response, the actor, who was present in person, admitted that he had taken the loan. The court noted that multiple opportunities had been granted earlier to clear the dues, but they were not complied with. Addressing the court, Yadav stated that in 2016, he had been directed to pay around Rs 10.40 crore and had even produced documents relating to a property worth Rs 28 crore belonging to a friend. He further claimed that despite making partial payments, including Rs 2 crore, the complainant was not interested in accepting the remaining amount and instead wanted him to be sent to jail. About the case Back in 2010, Rajpal Yadav reportedly borrowed Rs 5 crore from Delhi-based Murli Projects Pvt Ltd to fund his directorial debut Ata Pata Laapata. The film failed at the box office, and as a result, the loan remained unpaid. Court records indicate that seven cheques issued later bounced. The dispute took a legal turn, and in April 2018, a magisterial court convicted Rajpal Yadav and his wife, Radha. The actor was sentenced to six months of simple imprisonment. In 2024, the court directed the actor to show a sincere effort to repay the dues. However, in February 2026, the court ordered him to surrender, and he was in Tihar Jail. He was later granted bail as he wanted to attend a family wedding. The actor is now busy promoting his upcoming film, Bhooth Bangla. It is set to release on April 10.
18 March,2026 04:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA controversy has erupted around the recently released song Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke, featuring Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt from KD: The Devil. The song was pulled down hours after its upload as it faced backlash for its alleged vulgar lyrics. While several government authorities have directed the CBFC to ban the song, Nora Fatehi has now reacted to the controversy. She denies performing in the song and states she won’t endorse such a track. Nora Fatehi breaks silence on Sarke Chunar controversy Nora uploaded a video clarifying her stance on the controversy. She stated in the video that she is currently grieving a loss and is addressing the backlash amid this. Nora said, “I shot this song three years ago in a language called Kannada, which is a part of a different industry called Sandalwood, okay? And when I shot this song three years ago, I said yes to it because it was a part of a big film, it was with a big icon, Sanjay Dutt. Who would say no to working with him? He's such an icon.” While Nora was shooting for the song, it was in the Kannada version, and she failed to understand the language. However, the lyrics at that time didn’t seem inappropriate to her. She further recalled how she had issues during the song launch and was later shocked to see AI-generated images of her and Dutt. “When I was invited for the launch at the event, I sat there and saw the Kannada version, which, first of all, I had a major issue with because they didn't take any approvals from me when they created that lyrical version. They used very unflattering photos, and if anyone knows me, they know that I have to approve all my photos. They put this lyrical version out without my approval.” She added, “Then they created an image of me and Sanjay Dutt, which was AI-generated. I'm already against AI, so I was already feeling really irritated at the event when I saw what I saw.” Nora further clarified that she disassociated herself from the project as soon as she heard the Hindi version, as she was aware it could lead to backlash. She even stated that this was the reason she never promoted the song. “I said, my image and reputation are on the line. Here's the thing: as artists, especially artists like me who, one, don’t really have this backing—we're not nepo kids, we don’t come with a certain power behind us—it’s just us. We're just individuals, and the audience is behind us. We have little power. We have little control. Thankfully, I've been lucky in Bollywood to work with a lot of people who have respected my opinion, who have respected my creative calls on certain things, and who listened to me.” In the caption, Nora wrote, “I would hate for anyone to think I endorse this. Thank you for the backlash because, due to this pressure, the filmmakers have luckily taken it down. I’d also request everyone to stop sharing the song because you're just giving it a platform unnecessarily. On a side note, I see some of you trying to use this as an opportunity to attack my character. It’s unfortunate. Anyways, my team and I will be more careful in the future in such situations. However, I do want to reiterate that I had no idea about this Hindi song, I did not perform to it, and there was no permission taken to use it with my image.” About Sarke Chunar controversy The latest controversy around Nora Fatehi centers on the song Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke from the film KD: The Devil. Soon after its release, the track drew widespread backlash for allegedly vulgar lyrics and suggestive choreography. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has instructed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to take strict action if the claims are verified. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has demanded an official ban on the song and said that such ‘vulgar and double-meaning content’ is unacceptable in Indian cinema. Recently, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) also issued a notice over the alleged use of objectionable and double-meaning lyrics in the song.
18 March,2026 04:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSwara Bhasker took to social media to refute a viral tweet falsely attributed to her. The fake post criticised Priyanka Chopra amid her recent controversy at the Oscars. Swara Bhasker on fake tweet criticising Priyanka Chopra On Wednesday, Swara clarified that the tweet credited to her was not posted by her and that the circulating screenshot was fabricated. She wrote, “So apparently, Sanghis have created this fake tweet and are circulating it to mock me. Ajeeb desperation hai. I’m capable of generating my own controversies, guys , you don’t have to implant me in other people’s news. I mean, I know you guys are obsessed with me, but I’ll give you content na! So yeah, this supposed tweet of mine is FAKE!” The fake tweet attributed to Swara read, “No matter how much you fake yourself to please some people, one day your real face will come in front of the whole world and you will face the consequences you deserve.” So apparently, Sanghis have created this fake tweet & are circulating it to mock me. Ajeeb desperation hai. I’m capable of generating my own controversies guys, you don’t have to implant me in other people’s news.. I mean I know you guys are OBSESSED with me but.. I’ll give you… pic.twitter.com/JTsASVeA3X — Swara Bhasker (@ReallySwara) March 18, 2026 About Priyanka Chopra’s Oscars controversy For the uninitiated, Priyanka Chopra was one of the presenters at the recently held Academy Awards. She appeared on stage alongside actor-director Ben Stiller, drawing attention after co-presenter Javier Bardem made a live “Free Palestine” and anti-war statement. Priyanka’s reaction, including an awkward smile while Bardem chanted slogans, went viral on social media, with several netizens criticising her for remaining silent. Many users claimed she did not appear to support Bardem’s anti-war stance. After the incident, content creator and political commentator Dhruv Rathee posted a video on Instagram discussing Priyanka’s reaction at the Oscars stage. Sharing the clip, he wrote, “Priyanka Chopra’s reaction at Oscars and Neutrality.” In the video, Dhruv said, “Watch this video… You have to see Priyanka Chopra’s expression here. Some of you might ask, what did she do wrong? She stayed quiet there, remained neutral, didn’t want to get political… But that’s exactly the problem. The position of neutrality is a position of privilege." He added, "If bombs aren’t falling on your home, you can afford to say you’re neutral, that you neither support the war nor oppose it. You can claim neutrality. Geopolitically speaking, in a conflict like the Israel–Iran war, countries such as New Zealand and Iceland can say they’re neutral because they’re geographically distant and not directly affected. But true humanity lies in those who, even from such a position, still choose to stand on the side of what’s right.”
18 March,2026 03:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEver since its teaser created a massive buzz online, Bhooth Bangla has continued to build excitement among audiences. Marking the much-anticipated reunion of Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan after 14 years, the film promises a signature blend of spooky fun and madcap comedy. Wamiqa Gabbi performs a key train sequence with Akshay Kumar Amid the ongoing shoot, a behind-the-scenes moment from the filming of one of the film’s songs has now caught attention. According to sources close to the production, actress Wamiqa Gabbi performed a key train sequence where she’s at the edge of a train, which required precise coordination and timing with Akshay Kumar. What stood out on set was the level of comfort and trust she shared with her co-star, Akshay Kumar, while executing the scene. “Wamiqa completely trusted Akshay with the sequence and was comfortable performing it without any external support. The coordination between the two came through effortlessly on camera, making the moment look seamless and natural,” revealed a source close to the film. The sequence has since become a talking point on set, with the crew appreciating Wamiqa’s confidence and the strong on-screen sync between the two actors. Wamiqa Gabbi arm wrestles Akshay Kumar Wamiqa uploaded a video on her Instagram handle which showed the two indulging in a fun match of arm wrestling on the flight. As Akshay is about to win, someone comes and places a lipstick on the table. Wamiqa's protective instincts immediately kick in, and she uses all her power, finally beating Akshay. Towards the end of the clip, she was seen holding the lipstick with relief palpable on her face. In the caption, Wamiqa clarified that it was the only lipstick she was carrying, hence increasing its importance. "Just some KHILADI energy before entering the Bhooth Bangla on 10th April (btw, that was the only lipstick I was carrying, it was an important lipstick) (Sic)," the 'Bhool Chuk Maaf' actress captioned the post. Taking a hilarious dig at the situation, Akshay wrote in the comment section, "Lesson learnt: never come between a girl and her lipstick. Even a Khiladi will lose that fight." Balaji Motion Pictures, a division of Balaji Telefilms Ltd, in association with Cape of Good Films, presents Bhooth Bangla starring Akshay Kumar, Wamiqa Gabbi, Paresh Rawal, Tabu, and Rajpal Yadav. Directed by Priyadarshan and produced by Akshay Kumar, Shobha Kapoor, and Ektaa R Kapoor, Bhooth Bangla releases in theatres on 10th April, 2026.
18 March,2026 03:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs fans across the country gear up for the paid premiere shows for Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar: The Revenge, viewers in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana have faced disappointment as the shows in the regional languages have been cancelled just hours before their scheduled time. These regional language shows have been replaced by the original Hindi version of the film and refunds have been initiated, exhibitors confirmed. Tamil and Telugu paid previews of Dhurandhar 2 cancelled The reason behind this last-minute cancellation is reportedly the unavailability of the Tamil and Telugu versions. Broadway Cinemas in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, confirmed the cancellation through a post on X. The paid preview shows were originally scheduled for 5.30 pm on Wednesday across the country; however, the chain explained that the Tamil paid previews had to be scrapped due to non-availability. They further shared that Hindi paid previews would be scheduled in their place, adding that they are currently initiating refunds for affected ticket holders. They also apologised for the inconvenience. According to reports, the delay stems from a holdup in delivering the content to theatres. Notably, the Hindi version of Dhurandhar 2 was only delivered to theatres across the country just an hour ago, with the subtitle package still expected to arrive. The issue seems to be that while the Hindi version was sent out by the makers, the dubbing work for the Tamil and Telugu versions has not yet been completed. The delay in post-production has made it impossible to screen the film in regional languages, leading to the cancellation of the premieres. Aditya Dhar's appeal ahead of Dhurandhar 2 As Aditya Dhar's highly anticipated Dhurandhar: The Revenge gears up for a grand release on Thursday, the filmmaker has requested everyone not to share any spoilers, keeping the experience good for every movie buff. Taking to his official Instagram handle, Dhar penned a heartfelt note thanking the audience for all the love showered on Dhurandhar. "To my dearest, most extraordinary Dhurandhar family... 5th December 2025, Dhurandhar released in cinemas worldwide. And since then, you didn't just watch our film. You loved it, You lived it. You appreciated every quiet detail, debated every moment, rewatched it and noticed things I never even thought anyone would. Somewhere in that beautiful, unpredictable journey, our film became yours. Then the nations. And then the world's! That is the most humbling, most moving gift a filmmaker could ever receive. (sic)" The director revealed that with Dhurandhar: The Revenge, they really wanted to surprise the viewers. He added, "So when we sat down to make 'Dhurandhar. The Revenge' we knew one thing with absolute certainty: we had to surprise you. We had to make you feel emotions you weren't prepared for. Deeply. Honestly. That is never easy. But for you. We tried our very hardest." Dhar further requested all to witness the movie in theatres and experience every emotion on the big screen. "We've put our hearts into Dhurandhar. The revenge so you can experience every twist, every emotion, exactly the way it is meant to be felt. In a theatre, in the dark, surrounded by friends, family and even strangers, everyone feeling the same emotions." Towards the end, the Uri maker urged everyone not to share any spoilers after watching the drama. "Here is my one, heartfelt, earnest request....."Please don't share spoilers!" Let every single fan walk in clueless but curious and walk out with their own deeply personal version of what they felt," added Dhar. (With inputs from IANS)
18 March,2026 03:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFilmmaker Ram Gopal Varma reviewed Dhurandhar: The Revenge, heaping praise on director Aditya Dhar’s upcoming film. The sequel to Dhurandhar is set to begin paid previews on Wednesday evening. Ahead of its release, Varma took to X and revealed that he watched the film on Tuesday night. RGV reviews Dhurandhar 2 Sharing his thoughts, Varma wrote a glowing review, “After last night’s watch of Dhurandhar2, in terms of its sheer cumulative impact in every which way — whether in its expected collections, audience euphoria, social influence, cinematic grammar-breaking, and above all the psychological audio-visual impact — it will be a Sholay × 100 level magnificence and is bound to make all the greatest films made so far, starting from Mughal-e-Azam onwards, look like TV serials (sic).” He further praised Dhar’s filmmaking, writing, “This is the BIRTH of a NEW CINEMATIC ORDER and the ruthless extinction of everything that ever existed before in the previous world of cinema. The very spelling of the word DIRECTOR will start from adityadharfilms’ name, and it will be prudent and wise for even Steven Spielberg and Christopher Nolan to drop everything they are doing and catch Dhurandhar2 — First Day, First Show.” After last nights watch of #Dhurandhar2 in terms of it’s sheer cumulative impact in every which way , whether on it’s expected collections , audience euphoria , social influences , cinematic grammar breaking , and above all the psychological audio visual impact , it will be a… — Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) March 18, 2026 CBFC cuts in Dhurandhar: The Revenge Dhurandhar: The Revenge has cleared the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) process and received an A certificate. The makers were reportedly asked to implement 21 modifications to the final cut. The changes include adding violence disclaimers and reducing scenes featuring abusive language and graphic visuals, including sequences of hammer attacks, beheading and kicking, head injuries with cement blocks, and eye-smashing scenes. The makers were also asked to update the date of demonetisation, suggesting the film may include a demonetisation-related subplot. The certificate further reveals that the sequel will feature an end-credits scene, similar to the first film. Additionally, the makers submitted official permission letters to the CBFC for the use of Prime Minister references and news footage in the film. The version initially submitted to the CBFC had a runtime of approximately 3 hours and 51 minutes. After the mandated cuts, the runtime was reduced by 1 minute and 34 seconds, with 25 seconds of footage replaced. According to the certificate, the domestic version runs for 3 hours, 49 minutes, and 6 seconds — about six minutes shorter than the overseas cut. This makes Dhurandhar: The Revenge roughly 15 minutes longer than the first instalment, which had a runtime of 3 hours and 34 minutes.
18 March,2026 02:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
