Just days before its scheduled theatrical release, Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar, starring Ranveer Singh, has become the centre of a major legal dispute. The family of Late Major Mohit Sharma, the Ashoka Chakra and Sena Medal awardee, has moved the Delhi High Court seeking an urgent stay on the film’s release.
In their petition, Major Sharma’s parents allege that the movie mirrors significant aspects of the decorated Special Forces officer’s life from covert missions in Kashmir to his ultimate sacrifice without seeking consent from either the Indian Army or the family. They argue that the trailer and promos resemble real counter terror operations associated with the late officer, yet the makers have not acknowledged any such inspiration.
The family emphasises that a martyr’s story cannot be used for commercial gains, stating that turning a soldier’s sacrifice into entertainment without approval violates posthumous personality rights under Article 21. They also say the unauthorised portrayal infringes on their own privacy and dignity.
Concerns over National security
Another key worry raised in the petition is the film’s depiction of sensitive military tactics, infiltration procedures and operational styles. The family argues that there is no indication of clearance from the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI), the body responsible for regulating how the Armed Forces are represented in public media.
Who is named in the petition?
Respondents include the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, CBFC, ADGPI, director-producer Aditya Dhar, and Jio Studios. The family has requested the Court to temporarily block the film’s release and allow them a private screening before it reaches the public.
They have also sought guidelines ensuring that future films inspired by real-life martyrs must receive prior approval from both the legal heirs and the Indian Army. The case will be heard next week, and the Court’s decision will determine whether one of the most awaited releases of the year moves forward as planned.
More about Dhurandhar
There has been a lot of discussion regarding its plot, and it has been rumoured that the movie is based on Major Mohit Sharma. However, director Aditya Dhar has dismissed these rumours and issued an official clarification.
He wrote on X, “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 do make a biopic on Mohit sir in the future, we will do it with full consent and in complete consultation with the family, and in a way that truly honors his sacrifice for the nation and the legacy it has left for all of us.”
Apart from Ranveer, the movie also stars Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Sara Arjun, Akshaye Khanna and Sanjay Dutt in the lead roles. It will release in theatres on December 5, 2025.
Also Read: Is Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar based on Major Mohit Sharma’s life? Aditya Dhar issues clarification
