‘Dhurandhar 2’ Controversy: Aditya Dhar Slams AI-Generated Images Of Ranveer Singh Smoking While In Turban
Aditya Dhar has shared a statement clarifying that the images in question are not from ‘Dhurandhar 2’ but AI-generated visuals being circulated to “provoke and create mischief”.
Aditya Dhar’s latest directorial venture ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ has been dominating the global box office, but the film’s commercial success is currently being shadowed by a growing social media firestorm. A controversy erupted recently following the circulation of an image showing lead actor Ranveer Singh smoking while wearing a pagdi (turban), a visual that has led to claims of hurting religious sentiments. However, director Aditya Dhar has now issued a stern clarification, revealing that the contentious visuals are not a part of the film at all.
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In a detailed note shared on social media, Aditya Dhar addressed the situation head-on, labelling the images as false and misleading. According to the filmmaker, the visuals being shared across platforms are the result of AI manipulation. He explained that certain individuals have used artificial intelligence to morph officially released promotional material, creating a narrative that does not exist in the actual movie.
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Check out Aditya Dhar’s statement here:
While Ranveer Singh has not posted a statement of his own, he took his Instagram Stories to re-share Aditya Dhar’s note.
The specific image in question depicts Ranveer Singh’s character – Jaskirat Singh Rangi, who operates under the alias Hamza Ali Mazari – engaging in smoking while wearing a turban. Aditya Dhar was clear in his denial, stating, “This is completely untrue and does not form part of the film or any official material released by us.” He further characterized the circulation of these images as a "deliberate act of misrepresentation" designed to provoke the public and create mischief.
Aditya Dhar took the opportunity to reiterate his profound respect for the Sikh community, asserting that every portrayal within the film was handled with the “utmost sensitivity, dignity, and responsibility”. He dismissed any suggestion to the contrary as “malicious and dishonest,” warning that such acts of misinformation would be dealt with firmly. He urged the audience to rely strictly on official content and to experience the film as intended in theatres rather than falling prey to AI-generated deception.
This clarification follows closely on the heels of legal trouble for the film's team. An FIR was recently filed at the Mulund Police Station in Mumbai by Gurjyot Singh Keer, a member of the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) and president of the Sikhs in Maharashtra organization. The complaint alleges that another scene in the film, involving R. Madhavan’s character Ajay Sanyal, shows him smoking while reciting a sacred verse from the Dasam Granth, authored by Guru Gobind Singh. The FIR reportedly names R Madhavan, Ranveer Singh, and Aditya Dhar.
Addressing these allegations, R. Madhavan also released a video on Instagram to clear the air. The actor explained that there was no intention to disrespect the Sikh community. He clarified that in the specific scene where his character interacts with Ranveer Singh’s character, the cigarette was extinguished before he began reciting the lines from the Dasam Granth. He emphasized that no smoke appears on screen during the recitation and requested the community’s understanding, reaffirming his deep-seated respect for their faith.
Despite these hurdles, ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ continues its dream run at the box office, proving to be a massive draw for audiences. It has entered the Rs 600 crore club in India and crossed the Rs 1000 crore mark worldwide.
