Mumbai: Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has raised concerns over the depiction of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim in the recently released film Dhurandhar 2, despite otherwise praising the film’s craft and storytelling.
Speaking in a recent podcast conversation, Varma said the portrayal of Dawood Ibrahim in the film does not align with his personal understanding, though he acknowledged the lack of definitive information on the subject.
RGV praises film but flags key concern
Varma, known for directing the cult classic Satya, has been an admirer of Dhurandhar 2 and has publicly appreciated director Aditya Dhar for his work.
However, during a discussion with writer Hussain Zaidi on his YouTube channel, the filmmaker pointed out that the film’s depiction of Dawood Ibrahim stood out as the only element he disagreed with.
“The only element I disagree with is that… I think it is being shown incorrectly,” Varma said, referring to the gangster’s portrayal.
Questions over Dawood Ibrahim’s current status
In Dhurandhar 2, Dawood Ibrahim is portrayed as a powerful figure orchestrating terror activities from Pakistan under the alias ‘Bade Sahab’. Varma, however, suggested that this interpretation may not reflect reality.
He clarified that his opinion is based on what he has heard over the years and not on verified facts.
“It’s not like I can say that with authority. But it is not falling in line with what I know,” he explained.
According to Varma, Dawood Ibrahim may have stepped away from active involvement in criminal operations long ago.
“He is inactive by choice… I believe he retired from criminal activities 20 years ago,” he added.
‘No one can claim absolute truth’
The filmmaker also emphasised the ambiguity surrounding figures like Dawood Ibrahim, noting that neither filmmakers nor critics can conclusively establish the truth.
“Nobody can be an expert… I can’t disprove it, and the director can’t prove it as well,” Varma said, underlining the speculative nature of such portrayals.
About Dhurandhar 2
Dhurandhar 2 follows the rise of Hamza Ali Mazari, played by Ranveer Singh, who emerges as the ‘Sher-e-Baloch’ and a dominant force in Lyari.
The film traces his transformation from Jaskirat Singh Rangi into a covert operative who infiltrates Pakistan on a mission tied to retaliating against terror attacks.
The spy-action thriller also features a strong supporting cast including Arjun Rampal, R. Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Rakesh Bedi, Danish Pandor and Sara Arjun.
Conclusion
While Ram Gopal Varma has largely praised Dhurandhar 2, his remarks on the portrayal of Dawood Ibrahim highlight the challenges filmmakers face when depicting real-life figures whose stories remain shrouded in mystery.