After its blockbuster success in theatres — crossing over ₹1,300 crore in global box office revenue — the Hindi spy thriller Dhurandhar made its digital debut on Netflix on January 30, 2026. The film, starring Ranveer Singh, R. Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna and Arjun Rampal, follows a high-stakes Indian intelligence mission inspired by historic events, including the Parliament attack and international terror incidents.
While many fans were excited to stream the espionage saga at home, a vocal section of viewers expressed dissatisfaction with the version made available on Netflix. Complaints circulated on social media that some dialogues were muted and nearly ten minutes of footage trimmed, despite the film’s ‘A’ (adult) certification. Viewers questioned why an adult-rated film would arrive in a censored format on a paid OTT platform, with some comparing the digital release unfavourably to uncut versions of other high-profile movies.
The reaction highlights a broader conversation on creative freedom and content standards in India’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. OTT platforms occupy a unique space between artistic expression and public responsibility, and India’s regulatory framework for online media continues to adapt to new challenges. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the IT Rules of 2021 already set clear guidelines to prevent unlawful or offensive content, while balancing cultural norms and audience protection — especially in a diverse society like ours.
Industry observers note that Dhurandhar’s emphasis on patriotic themes and real-life inspired events resonated strongly with Indian audiences, contributing to its historic box-office run. Many see the film’s success as part of a growing appetite for content that blends entertainment with national pride, resilience and real-world relevance.
Despite the streaming criticism, Dhurandhar continues to dominate public conversation, demonstrating the enduring influence of Indian cinema in shaping cultural discourse. With a sequel scheduled for theatrical release in March 2026, the film franchise’s journey from box office hit to OTT centrepiece underscores both the commercial might of Indian films and the need for clear content norms that respect viewer expectations and cultural values.
