Controversy Surrounds Wikipedia Pages for 'Dhurandhar' Films

The Wikipedia pages for the 2026 Indian spy-thriller films ‘Dhurandhar’ and its sequel ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ have been placed under ‘Extended confirmed protection’ as of March 25, 2023. This status restricts editing to users with extended confirmed user access, Wikipedia administrators, and bots. The decision to lock these pages stems from ongoing debates among editors and the general public regarding whether the sequel can be classified as a “propaganda film.”

The Hindu

The discussion surrounding the films has sparked significant contention, with various Wikipedia users presenting arguments both for and against labeling ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ as propaganda. Some users referenced reviews and comparisons to other controversial films globally to support their positions, while others questioned the validity of using film reviews as sources for such a classification. Central to the debate is the concern over giving “undue weight” to minority views in the portrayal of the films.

The Hindu

Upon its release in 2025, ‘Dhurandhar’ received acclaim for its cinematography, plot, sound score, and action sequences. However, it faced criticism for its portrayal of real-life political events and the depiction of Pakistani individuals, which some deemed stereotypical. The films have garnered praise from right-wing Hindu audiences, while critics have accused them of fostering intolerance towards Muslims.

The Hindu

Wikipedia's decision to lock pages on contentious topics is not unique to the ‘Dhurandhar’ films. Similar measures have been applied to other sensitive subjects, such as the Wikipedia entry for the Gaza Genocide, where editors debate the appropriateness of the term “genocide.” Wikipedia emphasizes that disputes are resolved by consensus rather than majority vote, reflecting the platform's commitment to neutrality and balanced representation.

The Hindu

Critics of ‘Dhurandhar’ and its sequel argue that the films perpetuate divisive narratives and misrepresent complex geopolitical issues. The portrayal of characters and events has raised concerns about the impact of such films on societal attitudes, particularly in a diverse country like India. The ongoing discussions on Wikipedia highlight the challenges of documenting and discussing controversial topics in a manner that respects various perspectives.

The Hindu

• “Disputes on Wikipedia are resolved by consensus, not by majority vote,” — Wikipedia Notice

The Hindu

• “This is designated as a contentious topic with special editing restrictions.” — Wikipedia Notice

The Hindu

The ongoing debate over the classification of the ‘Dhurandhar’ films as propaganda underscores the complexities of representation in media and the challenges faced by platforms like Wikipedia in managing discussions on sensitive topics.

The Hindu