SP Spokesperson Rajkumar Bhati Accuses Film ‘Dhurandhar’ of Spreading Hatred Against Pakistan, Sparks Political Debate

Ghaziabad: A political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after Samajwadi Party (SP) spokesperson Rajkumar Bhati accused the recently discussed film ‘Dhurandhar’ of promoting hatred against Pakistan. His remarks have triggered sharp reactions across political circles and social media, intensifying the debate over nationalism, cinema, and cross-border narratives.

Speaking in Dadri, Greater Noida, Bhati alleged that India’s literary and film communities suffer from a “Pakistan phobia,” and that movies like Dhurandhar, which depict stories of Indian intelligence agencies, are being used to stoke animosity rather than promote peace.

‘Cinema Should Promote Harmony, Not Hatred’

Responding to media questions about Dhurandhar, Bhati said that many poets, writers, and filmmakers gain popularity by abusing Pakistan rather than producing meaningful creative work.

“Listen to some so-called patriotic poets—they earn applause by hurling abuses at Pakistan. Many filmmakers do the same. But there are also creators who have produced beautiful works promoting harmony between India and Pakistan,” Bhati said.

Citing Yash Chopra’s film Veer-Zaara as an example, he said cinema can send a powerful message of peace and shared humanity. He also referred to poet Uday Pratap’s nazm, highlighting its positive portrayal of Pakistan. According to Bhati, films like Dhurandhar do not serve public interest and only deepen hostility.

Attack on Political Opportunism

The SP spokesperson also launched a strong attack on politicians, accusing them of exploiting hostility between the two nations for electoral gains.

“In Pakistan, many leaders seek votes by abusing India. Unfortunately, in India too, some political parties ask for votes by abusing Pakistan,” he said. “This politics harms ordinary citizens on both sides of the border.”

Bhati argued that Pakistan has already suffered immense losses due to repeated conflicts with India, without any tangible benefit, and warned that India should avoid adopting a similar mindset focused solely on confrontation.

“Abusing Pakistan, making films against Pakistan, writing poems and novels against Pakistan—this mentality will not benefit India either,” he added.

Social Media Reactions and Political Implications

Bhati’s remarks have sparked intense debate on social media, with users sharply divided. While critics questioned why an SP leader appeared sympathetic towards Pakistan, supporters defended his call for peace and cultural dialogue.

Some commentators also linked the controversy to electoral consequences, suggesting that such statements could impact political equations in the run-up to the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, drawing parallels with past political backlash faced by opposition parties over sensitive national issues.

As the debate continues, Dhurandhar has moved beyond cinema into the political arena, once again highlighting how films, nationalism, and electoral politics remain deeply intertwined in India’s public discourse.