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'Ranveer Singh at all-time low, Aditya Dhar had 1 film': Sanjay Gupta weighs in on the Rs 300 crore gamble behind 'Dhurandhar'
ETimes | May 13, 2026 9:39 PM CST

Even though ‘ Dhurandhar ’ first hit theaters in December last year, the film continues to dominate conversations, and for good reason. From its ambitious scale and gripping storytelling to filmmaker Aditya Dhar 's obsessive attention to detail across both Part 1 and Part 2, the film has completely fascinated audiences. The nearly eight-hour-long franchise has reportedly grossed over Rs 3000 crore worldwide, a stunning feat considering it was made on a budget of around Rs 300 crore. Those within the industry believe the film's extraordinary success resulted not just from Aditya's remarkable vision, but also from his deep love for and influence by the cinema of the 80s and 90s.


Sanjay Gupta on Aditya Dhar's vision behind 'Dhurandhar'Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta recently discussed Dhar's unique filmmaking approach and the enormous risk involved in making ‘Dhurandhar’ during an appearance on the InControversial Podcast. Reflecting on what makes Aditya stand out as a filmmaker, Gupta said, “It is very evident that Aditya Dhar is inspired by filmmakers of the 80s and 90s. I can clearly see those influences and that style of world-building. There is no doubt that Aditya Dhar is an exceptionally intelligent filmmaker. But having said that, he spent four years trying to put this project together. That’s how difficult it is, irrespective of whether your last film was a hit or not”.