‘Dhurandhar’ Row: Pakistani Politician Nabil Gabol Slams His Alleged Portrayal, Sparking Debate on Fiction, Facts, and Propaganda
More than two weeks after its theatrical release, Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar and headlined by Ranveer Singh, continues to generate sharp reactions well beyond the box office.
While the spy action thriller has been praised by a section of viewers for its slick technical execution, high-octane action, and strong performances, it has also drawn criticism for what detractors describe as ideological messaging and stereotyping.
The latest controversy comes from Pakistan, where Nabil Gabol, a former member of Pakistan’s National Assembly, has publicly objected to what he claims is a distorted cinematic portrayal inspired by his persona.
Nabil Gabol’s Objection
Gabol has taken strong exception to the character of Jameel Jamali, played by Rakesh Bedi, which he believes is loosely based on him.
Gabol, a senior leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party and former Minister of State for Ports and Shipping (2008–2011), argues that the film reduces a complex political figure into a caricature.
According to him, the film fails to capture what he describes as his “dabbang” (assertive and influential) political persona. Instead, he alleges, the character is weakened and framed in a manner that suits the film’s narrative rather than reality.
More critically, Gabol has objected to the depiction of Lyari, a locality in Karachi, which he says has been unfairly projected as a terrorist hub.
“They tried to show Lyari as a terrorist centre. Lyari is not a terrorist hub,” Gabol said in interactions with local media, adding that the portrayal maligns an area known as much for its political consciousness and resilience as for its troubled past.
When asked if he would seek an international ban on the film, Gabol admitted he lacked the financial and legal means to pursue such action.
Is Gabol’s Criticism Valid?
From an objective standpoint, Gabol’s grievance reflects a familiar tension between real-life inspiration and cinematic fiction.
Filmmakers often draw from reality but exaggerate traits to serve dramatic and ideological goals.
Supporters of Gabol’s view argue that Dhurandhar reinforces long-standing stereotypes about certain Pakistani regions and political figures, thereby blurring the line between storytelling and propaganda.
On the other hand, defenders of the film point out that Dhurandhar does not claim to be a documentary.
They argue that Jameel Jamali is a fictional character inspired by multiple archetypes rather than a literal portrayal of one individual.
In this reading, the film uses heightened characterisation as a narrative device common to spy thrillers, where moral binaries are often sharply drawn.
Rakesh Bedi’s Clarification
Adding nuance to the debate, Rakesh Bedi himself has acknowledged that his character was inspired by a real-life politician, though he avoided naming anyone.
He explained that his preparation involved studying visuals, body language, and speeches to shape a character who is politically cunning and perpetually adaptable.
Describing Jamali as “fox-like,” Bedi suggested the role represents a certain class of politicians—those who manage to survive and thrive regardless of which regime is in power. He also noted that such figures are not unique to Pakistan and can be found in Indian politics as well.
The Story of Dhurandhar, Briefly
At its core, Dhurandhar is a spy action thriller centred on covert intelligence operations, political manipulation, and cross-border intrigue.
Ranveer Singh plays a relentless intelligence operative navigating a shadowy world of double agents, power brokers, and moral compromises.
With key performances by Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, and Sara Arjun, the film explores the murky intersection of espionage, politics, and national security.
Produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the film has found commercial success in India, though its reception in Pakistan has been predictably hostile due to its themes and portrayals.
General Opinion
In India, Dhurandhar is largely seen as a stylised spy thriller designed for mass appeal, even if its politics divide opinion.
In Pakistan, reactions like Gabol’s underline discomfort with how Pakistani politics and urban spaces are framed through an Indian cinematic lens.
Ultimately, the controversy highlights a larger question: where should cinema draw the line between creative liberty and responsible representation—especially when real people and places appear just beneath the surface of fiction?
#Dhurandhar #RanveerSingh #AdityaDhar #NabilGabol #IndoPakCinema #FilmControversy #SpyThriller #CreativeFreedom #PoliticalPortrayal #CinemaDebate
