As Aditya Chopra's Spy Universe faces increasing scrutiny following the release of 'Dhurandhar' (2025) and its sequel 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' (2026), actress Anupria Goenka, who featured in two of the franchise's biggest hits, 'Tiger Zinda Hai' (2017) and 'War' (2019), has stepped forward with a warm and measured defence of the beloved action series. Her association with the franchise gives her perspective on its evolution particular weight.
Anupria Goenka on Spy Universe vs 'Dhurandhar'
Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, Anupria Goenka addressed the backlash surrounding the franchise with characteristic calm and candour. She said, "I have no idea about it. The way I live and operate, I don't really get to know what's happening. I am very proud of both 'War' and 'Tiger Zinda Hai' and I thoroughly enjoyed shooting for them."
She also expressed her appreciation for 'Pathaan' (2023) as a viewer before going on to defend the varying tones across the franchise. She said, "For me, 'War' and 'Tiger Zinda Hai' were beautiful, entertaining films. 'Dhurandhar', meanwhile, is a different kind of entertaining film. There has to be space for everything. Everybody gets to choose what they like to watch."
Anupria Goenka Praises 'Dhurandhar' and India's Evolving Cinema
Far from dismissing 'Dhurandhar', Anupria Goenka was enthusiastic about the film's distinct identity within the spy genre. She said, "I enjoyed 'Dhurandhar' a lot and felt it was a fabulous film. I am glad that kind of work is being done in India."
At the same time, she made clear that her admiration for the earlier films in the franchise goes beyond personal sentiment: "I have a huge amount of admiration for 'War' and 'Tiger Zinda Hai', not just because I was a part of them, but also because I enjoyed them immensely as a viewer."
Spy Universe vs 'Dhurandhar' Franchise
Aditya Chopra's spy universe, which includes 'Ek Tha Tiger', 'Tiger Zinda Hai', 'War', 'Pathaan', 'Tiger 3', and 'War 2', received criticism for its over-the-top action and unrealistic depiction of Indian agents. On the other hand, the 'Dhurandhar' franchise received appreciation and love for showcasing agents as spies who are covert, strategic, and not going over the top. While the spy universe thrives on larger-than-life spectacle, 'Dhurandhar' offers a grounded, tactical approach that resonates with audiences seeking realism. Both styles have their merits, and as Goenka points out, there is room for diversity in Indian cinema.
The actress's comments come at a time when the spy genre in Bollywood is expanding, with multiple films in development. Her balanced perspective highlights the importance of allowing different storytelling approaches to coexist, enriching the cinematic landscape for viewers.
