Saif Ali Khan: Dhurandhar Changed Bollywood Forever

Bollywood has entered a transformative new phase, according to actor Saif Ali Khan, largely due to the immense success of the "Dhurandhar" franchise. Khan asserts that the spy series has not only achieved massive box office dominance but has also fundamentally reshaped audience expectations for commercial cinema, prompting filmmakers to reconsider traditional storytelling methods.

Reflecting on the franchise's impact, Khan noted a distinct "before and after Dhurandhar" period in Hindi cinema. He highlighted the phenomenal commercial success of the first film, released in December 2025, and its sequel, "Dhurandhar: The Revenge" (March 2026), which together reportedly earned over Rs 3,100 crore worldwide. The second installment alone significantly contributed to Bollywood's domestic box office revenue.

Beyond its box office achievements, Khan also praised the franchise's innovative use of music, specifically the song 'Shararat.' He commended how the song, featuring Ayesha Khan and Krystle D'Souza, was naturally woven into the narrative through a wedding sequence, departing from conventional 'item song' formats and enhancing the film's overall flow.

Khan's observations underscore the need for filmmakers to adapt to the dynamic landscape of the industry, rather than relying on established formulas. The success of "Dhurandhar" serves as a benchmark for future commercial entertainers, signaling a clear shift in what audiences now seek from big-screen experiences.