Reclaiming the Narrative: Deconstructing Anti-Pakistan Propaganda in the Indian Film Dhurandhar I & II

Abstract

Cinema operates as a powerful instrument of soft power, shaping public perception, collective memory, and political discourse through emotionally engaging narratives. This study critically examines the Indian film Dhurandhar (both parts) to explore how popular cinema constructs and circulates anti-Pakistan narratives. Employing a qualitative research design, the study integrates content analysis, narrative analysis, in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) to examine selected scenes, dialogues, cinematography, sound, character portrayals, and cultural representations. The analysis is grounded in soft power theory, media framing theory, and propaganda analysis to understand how cinematic techniques contribute to ideological messaging and national identity construction. Findings indicate systematic historical distortion, emotional manipulation, selective storytelling, and the reinforcement of political stereotypes. IDIs and FGDs revealed strong audience criticism of scenes depicting the ISI, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the character of Sardar Rehman and SP Chaudhri Aslam, which participants described as misleading and factually inaccurate. Moreover, participants highlighted the misrepresentation of Liyari culture, particularly through the costumes of the lead hero and heroine, which were seen as culturally inauthentic. The study emphasizes the importance of media literacy, critical viewing practices, and the development of counter-narratives to challenge the influence of politically biased cinema.