Following the historic box office storm of Dhurandhar: The Revenge, director Aditya Dhar shared an emotional moment of gratitude with his team. During a special screening in Mumbai on Thursday, March 19, 2026, the filmmaker was captured on video thanking those who stood by his ambitious vision for the sequel.
The video, shared by actor Rakesh Bedi on Instagram, shows a visibly overwhelmed Dhar addressing his cast and crew. “Thank you to those who believed in me,” he said, specifically mentioning producer Jyoti Deshpande, his HODs, and the actors who “gave their heart and soul to the film.” His wife, actress Yami Gautam, was seen in the background, moved to tears during the heartfelt speech.
The “Hamza” Phenomenon
The film has not only dominated the box office but has also become a cultural mainstay through social media.
- The Meme Factor: Aditya Dhar noted that he is enjoying the viral memes as much as the critical praise.
- The Rakesh Bedi Effect: Lead star Ranveer Singh jokingly remarked that if the film hits the ₹1000 crore mark, “₹500 crore would be because of Rakesh Bedi,” highlighting the veteran actor’s impactful role in the sequel.
- Music Controversy: Amid the success, Pakistani singer Hasan Jahangir claimed the makers paid him $50,000 to officially license his iconic track “Hawa Hawa” for the film, adding to its massive soundtrack appeal.
Box Office Update: ₹230 Crore and Counting
The sequel, which explores the origins of Jaskirat Singh Rangi (aka Hamza), has officially raked in ₹230 crore (nett) in India within its first two days (including paid previews).
- Paid Previews: ₹75 crore (Gross)
- Opening Day: ₹165 crore (Gross)
- Current India Net: ₹230 crore
The film’s intricate storytelling, which weaves in real-world geopolitical events like the 26/11 attacks and the Kandahar hijack, is being cited by Dhar as the element he is most pleased to see audiences noticing.