The emotional impact of Dhurandhar is still being discussed months after its release. Recently, R Madhavan shared how filming one of the movie’s most disturbing scenes left the cast deeply affected. In a candid interaction, the actor spoke about the intense atmosphere on set while recreating moments inspired by the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
Madhavan, who played a key role in the 2025 blockbuster directed by Aditya Dhar, recalled a scene that proved emotionally overwhelming. The sequence showed characters celebrating during the tragic events in Mumbai. For the actors, this moment blurred the line between performance and painful memory.
R Madhav Says Dhurandhar Actors Cried During 26/11 Attack Shoot
Speaking about the experience, Madhavan revealed that the emotions were too strong to contain. In an interview with Sonia Senoy, Madhavan recalled, “When the actors were performing this scene, where they are actually celebrating the attack in Bombay because they are Indian actors portraying Pakistani characters, wo jo scene khatam hone ke baad roye hain na sab, toot ke roye hain.”
He explained that once filming stopped, the mood on set shifted instantly. Many cast members, including Ranveer Singh, Arjun Rampal and Akshaye Khanna, reportedly broke down after completing the scene.
About This Dhurandhar Scene That Changed Perspectives
Madhavan admitted that the experience changed how he views storytelling. He said the scene reminded him of the true power of meaningful cinema. Instead of being just another sequence, it became a reflection of how films can trigger memory, empathy and emotion.
The widely discussed 26/11 segment in Dhurandhar is considered one of its most haunting moments. The scene used a striking “red screen” effect along with transcripts and audio inspired by real communications between the attackers and their handlers.
On-screen, viewers saw handlers and criminals celebrating as the attacks unfolded. In contrast, Ranveer Singh’s character, Hamza, stood silently among them. His internal struggle was suppressed by rage and trauma, which became a key turning point in the film’s story.
The scene had a strong effect not just on the actors, but also on audiences. Several survivors of the attacks at the Taj Mahal Palace described the portrayal as “bone-chilling” and “gut-wrenching.” Many viewers praised the film for its intense realism.
Box Office Success Of Ranveer Singh Starrer
Despite its heavy subject, the film achieved remarkable commercial success. Dhurandhar completed a 75-day theatrical run, collecting Rs 894.49 crore net in India. Globally, it grossed Rs 1,354.84 crore, including Rs 299.35 crore from overseas markets.
The film was declared an All-Time Blockbuster. It became the highest-grossing Hindi film in India and the second highest-grossing Bollywood film worldwide, behind Dangal. Following its theatrical success, Dhurandhar premiered on Netflix on January 30, 2026. The film is now available in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu, reaching an even wider audience.
