‘Becoming Dhurandhar Is Not the Only Way to Serve the Nation’: Shashi Tharoor on the Film

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has criticised the excessive violence and what he described as unnecessary propaganda in Aditya Dhar’s spy-action film Dhurandhar, while praising its engaging storyline and plot twists.
 

The Thiruvananthapuram MP said the film’s second part was considerably more entertaining than the first. Despite his reservations about its content, he appreciated the storytelling and the way the narrative developed.
 

On Monday, Tharoor shared a 6-minute-and-20-second video on his official YouTube channel. In the video, he is seen watching and reviewing both parts of Dhurandhar with members of his staff at his residence in Delhi.
 

Tharoor Raises Concerns Over Propaganda
 

Commenting on the film’s content, Tharoor said it contained a considerable amount of propaganda and disturbing violence. He also referred to reports that the film had been banned in Pakistan and several Gulf countries, reportedly to prevent unnecessary hostility between Indians and Pakistanis.
 

Tharoor said he could understand the concerns behind such restrictions. Discussing how Pakistani audiences might react to the film, he suggested that some dialogues could make them laugh, while other scenes might prompt them to reflect on the actions being carried out in their name.
 

His remarks highlighted the contrast between his criticism of the film’s messaging and his appreciation of its narrative.
 

Praises Storyline and Plot Twists
 

Despite his objections to the film’s violence and political messaging, Tharoor praised its production and storytelling.
 

He described the story, screenplay and plot twists as impressive, adding that the second part was more entertaining because the first instalment had left several questions unanswered.
 

Tharoor’s review reflects his mixed response to the film: while he raised concerns about its portrayal of events and the extent of its violence, he acknowledged the effectiveness of its plot and narrative development.
 

The film, directed by Aditya Dhar, has drawn attention for its spy-action storyline and performances. Tharoor also praised the performances of Akshaye Khanna and Arjun Rampal, according to the accompanying headline.