Chennai, India — March 28, 2026
The blockbuster success of Dhurandhar 2 has been accompanied by a growing wave of controversy, after acclaimed Tamil filmmaker Vetrimaaran made remarks widely interpreted as criticism of the film’s narrative.
Speaking at the trailer launch event of his upcoming project Neelira, Vetrimaaran emphasized the responsibility of filmmakers in shaping public perception and warned against content that promotes violence or division.
“Cinema Should Not Spread Hate”
Without naming any specific film, Vetrimaaran said, “If we don’t tell our own stories, nothing will change. People will continue believing narratives shaped by others.”
He added that some films, despite heavy budgets, end up spreading violence or hatred, while also generating massive profits.
“Our film Neelira does not spread hate or mock any community,” he said, underscoring the importance of responsible storytelling.
Social Media Links Remarks to ‘Dhurandhar 2’
Although Vetrimaaran did not directly mention Dhurandhar 2, many social media users and industry observers have linked his comments to the Aditya Dhar directorial, which has been both widely praised and criticized since its release.
The film has sparked debates online, with some viewers labeling it as “propaganda-driven,” while others have defended it as a commercial entertainer.
About ‘Neelira’
Directed by filmmaker Somitharan and co-produced by Rana Daggubati, Neelira is set in northern Sri Lanka and is based on fictional events inspired by the 1988 conflict.
The film explores themes of war memory and its impact on children, aiming to present a nuanced and human-centered narrative.
Vetrimaaran, while discussing the project, also cautioned against distorting historical events for cinematic storytelling and urged filmmakers to present truth responsibly for future generations.
Box Office vs Criticism
Despite the controversy, Dhurandhar 2 continues its dominant run at the box office. The film has reportedly crossed ₹700 crore in India within just nine days, reinforcing its commercial success.
However, the film’s reception remains divided, with critics and audiences debating its thematic approach and messaging.
Ongoing Debate in Indian Cinema
The situation reflects a broader conversation within Indian cinema about the balance between creative freedom, commercial success, and social responsibility.
As Dhurandhar 2 continues to draw audiences, the debate around its content highlights the growing scrutiny faced by big-budget films in an increasingly aware and vocal digital landscape.
