Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh has completely shut down social media chatter regarding the significant 20-year age gap between him and his young co-star, Sara Arjun, in their upcoming film, Dhurandhar. Instead of addressing the controversy, Singh chose to shower Sara with lavish praise, declaring her a natural prodigy and comparing her talent to that of celebrated Hollywood actress Dakota Fanning.
The strong reaction came at the trailer launch of the film, directed by Aditya Dhar, where Ranveer’s high-energy endorsement immediately refocused the conversation from the actors’ ages to Sara’s undeniable on-screen talent.
The Viral Moment: Ranveer Singh Calls Sara a Prodigy
Ranveer Singh spoke with genuine admiration about his 20-year-old co-star, dismissing the notion that the film is her first major role given her established potential, especially from her work in South Indian cinema.
“I’m lucky to be part of such a special moment for you. Sara here is a prodigy. You will get to know,” Ranveer stated at the launch.
The Simmba actor then delivered the high-impact comparison that immediately went viral:
“Some people, you know, they are just like a child prodigy. Once Dakota Fanning came to Hollywood. I think, Sara, it’s a testament to the fact that you beat thousands of other candidates to land this part. You were born to do this.”
This comparison to Dakota Fanning—a former child actor known for her exceptional maturity and screen presence from a very young age—signals Ranveer’s strong belief that Sara Arjun is poised to be an acting force in Indian cinema.
“You Make Me Look Better, No Cap”
The intense scrutiny around the pair began when the first look of Dhurandhar was released in July, highlighting the 40-year-old Ranveer and the 20-year-old Sara. However, Singh countered the criticism by emphasizing the seamless quality of their professional partnership.
He continued his praise, highlighting Sara’s natural mastery of the craft: “It feels like she has done 50 films. She is so precocious as a person, as a performer. You are one of the finest actors that I have shared the screen with. You make me look better. And my heartfelt gratitude for that.”
By stating that she “makes him look better,” Ranveer shifted the focus from any romantic element suggested by the trailer to a collaborative, professional respect. It’s the ultimate compliment in the Gen Z lexicon, confirming her talent is “no cap” (genuine).
Ranveer also acknowledged Sara’s experience, particularly mentioning her work with acclaimed director Mani Ratnam, stating, “You’ve acted in his films as well. And you’ve showed your potential. And this is when the world will see you on the big stage.”
Dhurandhar, which promises to be an intense and dramatic story packed with chilling action, also features a powerful ensemble cast including R Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, and Sanjay Dutt. The film is slated to release in cinemas on December 5, 2025.