Director Aditya Dhar is currently awaiting the release of his film Dhurandhar, starring Ranveer Singh in the lead. The film is inspired by real-life events, which has led to speculation about possible real-world references. One such rumour claimed that Ranveer’s character was based on Major Mohit Sharma, who went undercover as Iftikhar Bhatt and infiltrated Hizbul Mujahideen in the early 2000s. In the film’s trailer, Singh’s character’s name was not revealed.
Aditya Dhar on Dhurandhar`s inspiration
However, Dhar has now put an end to the speculation after the soldier’s family sought clarification. Responding to a post on X by Major Mohit Sharma’s brother Madhur—who tagged the director and requested a clear confirmation—Dhar addressed the matter. Madhur wrote, “Respected @ndtv, a credible media house is expected to report facts and not mere speculations. People are having a field day adding to it. The parents are waiting for that one confirmation on whether this is about their son. @AdityaDharFilms I don’t think it’s Mohit, do you?”
Replying to the post, Dhar clarified, “Hi sir — our film Dhurandhar is not based on the life of braveheart Major Mohit Sharma AC(P) SM. This is an official clarification. I assure you, if we make a biopic on Mohit sir in the future, we will do it with full consent and complete consultation with the family, in a way that truly honours his sacrifice for the nation and the legacy he has left for all of us.”
Dhurandhar’s expected runtime
According to a Bollywood Hungama report, Dhurandhar is expected to have a runtime of around three hours. A source told the portal, “Dhurandhar has a vast and expansive storyline. The focus is on Ranveer Singh’s character and what he goes through, while other actors also play crucial parts. Director Aditya Dhar is clear that he doesn’t want to rush the narrative but wants to ensure that every scene engages and excites the audience.”
The source added, “At present, the final runtime of Dhurandhar is over three hours — around three hours and five minutes. The final duration, to be locked by Aditya Dhar, Jio Studios, and B62 Studios, will be confirmed in the next 10 days.” It remains to be seen whether the runtime will be shortened or remain as is.
Dhurandhar is directed by Aditya Dhar and inspired by real-life incidents, reportedly set against the backdrop of cross-border intelligence operations.
Along with Ranveer Singh, the film also stars Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal. The film’s trailer, which was scheduled for release on November 15, was postponed following the tragic Delhi Red Fort blast on November 10, 2025. The film is slated to release in theatres on December 5, 2025.