Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar created a storm at the box office when it was released in December 2025. Now, all eyes are on the sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which will hit theatres on March 19. Actor Akshay Kumar recently spoke about the film’s success, what it means for the industry, and how he feels about not being part of the Ranveer Singh-led project.
Akshay Kumar on Dhurandhar
Akshay Kumar praised the Ranveer Singh-starrer while speaking at the India Today Conclave Delhi 2026. Discussing changing cinematic trends, he said, “Take Dhurandhar, for example. It’s an action film with intense violence. It is great, and people have lapped it up. They have enjoyed it. A hero like Ranveer Singh takes on the angry young man image, which had faded for a while. Five to six years ago, I did social films and they worked well. Now it’s time for horror comedies — Stree worked so well. Everything keeps changing, and we don’t know what the audience will like next.”
Further, Akshay was asked if he wished to be part of the film after watching it. He said, “I don’t think Aditya thought I suited being part of the Layari gang. He didn’t think so, and that’s why I didn’t get it. I meet Ranveer and he appreciates my work. There are roles he wanted to play that I got, and vice versa.”
Akshay added, “We are 15–20 actors in Hindi cinema, and around 180 films are made in India. Everyone has a role. There is regret only to the extent that we also wish to play such roles, but there is no jealousy.”
Anil Kapoor on rejecting Dhurandhar 2
Anil Kapoor recently revealed that he was offered a cameo in Dhurandhar 2 by Aditya Dhar. However, the actor shared that he had to decline the role due to prior commitments to another filmmaker.
Speaking at the India Today Conclave, he said, “Yes, Aditya came to me for Dhurandhar 2. He wanted me to do a small cameo in the film. But the reason I am what I am today is because of my professionalism and commitment. That’s very important- talent alone cannot make you who you are.”
He added, “At that time, I had already committed those dates to another filmmaker. I told Aditya, ‘I would have loved to do this cameo, but I’m already committed.’ He is releasing the film now, and it’s a fantastic film. It’s my loss, but it’s okay.”
The actor further said, “So yes, he did offer me the role, and hopefully we will work together in the future.” When asked whether he would do Dhurandhar 3, Anil replied, “I think I will do something new. Kuch naya karunga (I will do something new).”