Karan Johar Defends Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar, Praises Craft Over Controversy; Says, “I Wasn’t Offended By Its Politics”

Filmmaker Karan Johar has waded into one of Bollywood’s most heated conversations of the season, wholeheartedly defending the runaway hit Dhurandhar while addressing criticism around its political messaging. In a candid interaction with IIMUN, the director emphasised that the film’s divisive themes did not offend him and that cinematic disagreement is a sign of creative freedom.

Karan Johar On Dhurandhar Being Called A Propoganda Film

Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, has not only smashed box office records but also sparked online debate, with some viewers labelling its politics as propaganda. Despite the controversy, Karan Johar, known more for his glossy family dramas, praised the film for its craft, storytelling and internal gaze, saying he watched it “Unabashedly, unapologetically, and absolutely, outstandingly” because he admired its cinematic execution.

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Speaking at an event hosted by the International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN), Johar clarified that he wasn’t offended by the politics of the film and focused instead on its craft and direction. “I know where it was heading. I know some people could agree or disagree, and that should be cinema,” he said, adding that he walked out thinking it was a “nuanced film.” He described Dhar as a filmmaker with a “unique voice” who is emerging as a strong creative force in Hindi cinema.

Johar’s comments come amid a landscape where reactions to Dhurandhar have varied widely. While some critics and commentators have called the spy thriller’s politics divisive, others, including actor Hrithik Roshan, have shared mixed responses, praising aspects of the filmmaking even if they didn’t align with all its political undertones.

Karan Johar Backs Filmmaker Aditya Dhar

Unfazed by such debates, Karan Johar reiterated that artistic expression should invite differing opinions rather than uniform agreement. He stressed that watching films through the lens of pure storytelling and craft is equally valid, regardless of ideological stances.

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Despite the chatter online, Dhurandhar continues to dominate the box office, crossing significant milestones and generating anticipation around its upcoming sequel.

Karan Johar’s defence of Dhurandhar reflects a broader sentiment among filmmakers who believe cinema should provoke conversation without fear of backlash. As Dhurandhar remains a cultural lightning rod, Johar’s stance underscores the evolving dynamic between commercial success, creative expression and public debate in contemporary Bollywood.

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Also Read: Ranveer Singh Led Dhurandhar 2- The Revenge Teaser Receives A Rating From CBFC; Runtime Details Out

Varsha Tiwari

Varsha Tiwari is a budding content writer passionate about Bollywood, pop culture, and the stories behind the spotlight. She enjoys breaking down trends, celebrity moments, and film narratives into engaging, reader-friendly content. Always curious and observant, she is currently pursuing a Master’s in Communication and Journalism. Outside of writing, she enjoys painting because storytelling doesn’t always need words to make an impact.