Indian cinema has a new global phenomenon, and it's not your typical Bollywood musical. Director Aditya Dhar's two-part gangster epic Dhurandhar—a sprawling 4-hour saga that critics are calling 'The Godfather meets Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy'—has taken Netflix by storm in May 2026, landing at the #9 spot on the streamer's global charts.
Starring Ranveer Singh in a career-defining dual role, Dhurandhar (which translates to 'the one who bears the burden') follows undercover agent Hamza Ali Mazari as he infiltrates Lyari's criminal underworld and political power structures in Pakistan. The mission: dismantle a terror network targeting India. But as the story unfolds, we discover that Hamza was once an ordinary boy named Jaskirat Singh Rangi, whose life was shattered by a personal tragedy that set him on a path of vengeance.
The franchise has already earned $360 million worldwide, driven largely by the record-breaking performance of its sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge. Now, both films are available on Netflix, where they've found a second life among subscribers hungry for gritty, morally complex storytelling.
What Makes 'Dhurandhar' So Captivating?
At its core, Dhurandhar is a spy thriller that doesn't shy away from real-world events. The narrative weaves actual terror attacks into its plot, grounding the high-stakes drama in a chilling reality. Singh delivers a powerhouse performance, making Hamza's violence and Jaskirat's devotion feel deeply personal. But the film is truly an ensemble piece, with Akshay Khanna playing the menacing Rahman Baloch in the first part, while Arjun Rampal's Major Iqbal serves as the terrifying final boss in The Revenge. Supporting turns from Gaurav Gera, Danish Pandor, and veterans Sanjay Dutt, Rakesh Bedi, and R Madhavan add layers of depth.
For fans of sprawling crime epics, Dhurandhar offers the kind of intricate world-building that rivals classics like Beyond the Corleones: 3 Drama Films That Surpass The Godfather. It's a film that demands your full attention—and rewards it with twists, betrayals, and a haunting central mystery: who is the real man behind the name Hamza?
Controversy and Criticism
Not everyone is celebrating. Dhurandhar has faced backlash from critics who call it a propaganda tool for India's ruling right-wing party. Some have also objected to its portrayal of the Muslim community, arguing that the film reinforces harmful stereotypes. The controversy has only fueled interest, with debates raging on social media about the line between art and propaganda.
Despite the criticism, the franchise has found a passionate audience. Its R-rated violence and unflinching depiction of undercover work have drawn comparisons to other gritty streaming hits like Becky Trilogy: Netflix's 'Wrath of Becky' Is 'John Wick' Meets 'Home Alone' Action Gold. And for those who love a good conspiracy thriller, Dhurandhar delivers the kind of layered storytelling that keeps you guessing until the final frame.
Should You Stream 'Dhurandhar'?
Absolutely. Whether you're a fan of intense spy dramas, gangster epics, or simply want to see Ranveer Singh at his most ferocious, Dhurandhar has something for you. The 4-hour runtime might seem daunting, but the film's pacing is relentless, and the payoff is worth the commitment. Both Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar: The Revenge are streaming now on Netflix.
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