Kamal Ghorui
Poet and commentator Kumar Vishwas has weighed in on the ongoing debate around Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar: The Revenge, a franchise that has sparked divided reactions online, with some calling it “propaganda.” Speaking in an interview with Zingabad, Vishwas shared his perspective, backing the film while addressing the larger conversation around storytelling and narrative bias.Vishwas began by revealing that Dhurandhar marked a rare cinematic outing for him.“Yes, after a very long time I watched a film. In fact, I watched a film in a theatre after almost 15 years.”
‘Wasn’t that also propaganda?’
Responding to claims that the film pushes a certain agenda, he drew a comparison with global cinema.“Look, Steven Spielberg made Schindler’s List. He is Jewish, and his family are survivors of Hitler’s atrocities. It took years to make and won several Oscars. Wasn’t that also propaganda in some sense?”He added that every filmmaker brings their own worldview to the screen.“Any filmmaker brings their own thought process. Aditya Dhar has his own perspective. He is a displaced Kashmiri.”Vishwas also suggested that narratives have long existed in cinema, but reactions differ depending on who tells them.“Yes, they have. Now if someone else has made a film with effort, craft, and detailing, suddenly it becomes a problem.”
‘Even if it is propaganda, against whom?’
Addressing the core criticism, he questioned the intent behind the narrative.“I’m not saying that. I’m saying—even if it is propaganda, the question is: against whom?”He further added, “If it is against Pakistan, then why should Indians object? When enemies of the country are shown being eliminated, would you clap or criticise?”Referring to portrayals inspired by real-life figures, Vishwas said, “If someone who attacked India is shown being punished, and is speaking to India’s National Security Advisor saying ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai,’ would you applaud or object?”“At least 10% of what we wish for—if that is shown—why not appreciate it?”
‘Films should be seen as films’
Emphasising creative freedom, Vishwas maintained that cinema must be viewed as an artistic medium.“Films should be seen as films. Every creator tells a story from their own lens.”“If I write about Lord Ram, my interpretation will differ from someone else’s. Similarly, a filmmaker presents their own version.”He also pointed out that the discomfort may stem from how the film is executed.“That’s exactly the point. Earlier, people called things propaganda because they were crude. Now it’s finely crafted, aesthetically made, and professionally executed—and that’s why it’s harder to dismiss.”
‘I told him he’s made a very good film’
Vishwas ended on a positive note, praising the film’s team. “I’ve praised Aditya Dhar. I even called him and told him he’s made a very good film. He’s like a younger brother to me.”He also appreciated actor Yami Gautam, adding, “She is also very talented.”Highlighting the director’s versatility, he said that despite being associated with filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, “he has made a strong action film,” calling it a testament to his skill.
