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10 Years On: Dishoom's Epic Abu Dhabi Chopper Stunt
29 Jul
Summary
- Dishoom's iconic helicopter stunt cost nearly Rs. 3 crores to film.
- The stunt was filmed over four days in Abu Dhabi with international experts.
- Varun Dhawan described the experience as 'scary' and 'breath taking'.

Sajid Nadiadwala's "Dishoom" recently marked its tenth anniversary, with its elaborate Abu Dhabi helicopter chase sequence remaining a highlight. This action sequence, reportedly costing approximately Rs. 3 crores, was a testament to the 2016 buddy cop entertainer's grand scale and required extensive pre-production.
Directed by Rohit Dhawan, the stunt was filmed over four days in Abu Dhabi. It involved John Abraham and Varun Dhawan performing daring maneuvers while secured by safety harnesses, under the guidance of an international stunt crew and a Royal Air Force pilot. This technically demanding scene featured helicopters flying at high speeds across the desert landscape.
Reflecting on the shoot, Varun Dhawan described the experience as "scary" and "breath taking," emphasizing the intense velocity and unique sensation of hanging from a chopper. Behind-the-scenes footage revealed the complex coordination, multiple aircraft, and stringent safety measures employed. Even a decade later, the creation of this practical action sequence is a significant talking point for "Dishoom."
Released in 2016, "Dishoom" featured John Abraham and Varun Dhawan as cops on a rescue mission. The film also gained attention for the lead actors' chemistry, its popular soundtrack, and Akshay Kumar's special appearance. The movie, starring Jacqueline Fernandez, Saqib Saleem, and Akshaye Khanna, continues to attract viewers on television and streaming platforms, with the helicopter stunt being a perpetually discussed element.