Dhurandhar on Netflix Changes Everything: Ranveer Singh Reclaims the Spotlight

Two months ago, Aditya Dhar unleashed Dhurandhar, a spellbinding spy action thriller that quickly took over conversations around cinema—online and off. Led by Ranveer Singh, the film sustained its buzz through its theatrical run, and when it began streaming on Netflix last week, first-time viewers were eager to dive in while fans prepared for a rewatch.

However, the response to Dhurandhar on Netflix turned out to be strikingly different from its theatrical reception. Viewers revisiting the film on OTT—and those watching it for the first time—were sharply divided in their opinions.

Who Ruled Dhurandhar: Akshaye Khanna or Ranveer Singh?

When Dhurandhar hit theatres on December 5, 2025, social media consensus largely crowned Akshaye Khanna as the film’s standout performer. His portrayal of Rehman Dakait was widely hailed as the MVP act, with many suggesting he nearly eclipsed Ranveer Singh, who plays protagonist Hamza Ali Mazari—later revealed as Jaskirat Singh Rangi.

That perception shifted dramatically once the film arrived on Netflix. A significant section of viewers argued that Ranveer Singh completely dominated the narrative, dismissing earlier claims that Akshaye Khanna was the primary scene-stealer. According to many OTT viewers, Ranveer “ate the film,” especially when watched without the heightened expectations set during the theatrical run.

Theatres vs Netflix: A Changed Viewing Experience

Another major talking point following the digital release has been the stark contrast in viewing experience between cinema halls and Netflix. Audiences who had watched Dhurandhar in theatres and were looking forward to a second viewing online expressed disappointment.

Complaints ranged from dull colour grading to frustration over muted profanity, with some viewers saying the toned-down audio diluted the film’s intensity. A section of fans accused Netflix of heavily censoring the movie for its OTT release.

It is worth noting that a revised version of Dhurandhar had already begun screening in theatres from January 1, after the makers were directed to mute allegedly offensive references to the Baloch community.

Shekhar Kapur Weighs In

Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, who missed the theatrical run while in the UAE, shared a positive response after watching the film on Netflix. Taking to X, he wrote:“Finally saw #Dhurandhar on Netflix. Terrific storytelling and very high-level performances even from minor roles. Director #AdityaDhar deserves all the praise he's getting. Congratulations producer #JyotiDeshpande and looking forward to #Dhurandhar2.”

When asked about the alleged censorship on the OTT version, Kapur clarified, “It did not feel censored except for swear words—but it was obvious what the characters were saying.”

Divided by fandom loyalties, technical complaints, and debates over censorship, one thing remains clear: Dhurandhar continues to dominate pop-culture conversations even two months after its release. Fans can revisit the film in theatres or on Netflix as anticipation builds for its sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge, slated to release on March 19, 2026.