Ankit Sagar Takes a Dig at Deepika, Shah Rukh, Salman-Katrina Films in ‘Dhurandhar’

Actor Ankit Sagar, who portrays the character of Javed Khanani in Aditya Dhar’s ‘Dhurandhar’, has taken a subtle yet sharp dig at Bollywood spy-action films such as Deepika Padukone–Shah Rukh Khan’s Pathaan and Salman Khan–Katrina Kaif’s Tiger.

Dhurandhar’s Realism vs. Spy Universe Films
In a recent interview with Siddharth Kannan, Ankit spoke about the film’s success and its realistic approach. When asked whether other spy-action films, particularly Yash Raj Films’ spy universe, could compete with Dhurandhar, he remarked without naming anyone directly:
“Aditya Dhar has made a more realistic film. I want to work with everyone, and yes, YRF has delivered hits too, but ‘Dhurandhar’ is based on reality while also being commercial. It has everything a good film should have.”

A Subtle Critique of Big-Budget Action Films
Ankit elaborated, “‘Dhurandhar’ has everything audiences want, which is why it reached so many people. ISI and RAW agents wouldn’t dance together in real life, but perhaps YRF films try to satisfy everyone for commercial gain.” His comments are clearly directed at films like Tiger, Pathaan, and War, sparking reactions among fans of those franchises.

Targeting Spy Characters
The actor’s remarks also indirectly address the on-screen portrayals of Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif as ISI agents, performing action sequences alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan respectively in the YRF spy universe.

On Major Mohit Sharma and Historical Inspirations
When questioned if the film was inspired by the life of Shaheed Major Mohit Sharma, Ankit clarified:
“People often notice similarities between characters and real-life personalities, but I don’t think Aditya Dhar based the story on his life. It’s just a coincidence.”

‘Uri’ Connection
Regarding the character of Jaskirat Singh Rangi in Dhurandhar, fans speculated about a link to Uri: The Surgical Strike. Ankit admitted he was unsure:
“I’m confused about that connection too. The script didn’t mention anything, and I really don’t know the meaning behind the name.”

Political Inspirations
On whether the film conveys a political statement, Ankit said:
“I wasn’t informed about any political message. I have nothing to do with any party or politician. The events shown, like the fake currency scene, are based on real incidents in our country. Films like these serve as lessons to prevent such mistakes in the future.”

Who is the ‘Big Boss’?
The film’s biggest mystery – ‘Who is the Big Boss?’ – remains under wraps. Ankit hinted, “I know the answer but want to keep it a secret. Names being discussed online, like Dawood Ibrahim, Osama bin Laden, and Masood Azhar, will appear in ‘Dhurandhar Part 2’. The audience will know who the Big Boss is in the sequel.”