In an exclusive year-end review, acclaimed filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar has declared the cinematic triumph of the year. Sharing his top three favourite hits of 2025, Bhandarkar placed Aditya Dhar's ambitious project, 'Dhurandhar', firmly at the pinnacle, describing the film in glowing terms.
Bhandarkar's Verdict: A Masterpiece Topped the List
The conversation, which took place on December 27, 2025, saw the National Award-winning director look back at the year's stellar releases. When asked to pick his favourites, he did not hesitate to crown 'Dhurandhar' as the standout. He called the film "absolutely brilliant," a significant endorsement from a peer known for his hard-hitting narratives.
Bhandarkar's praise wasn't vague. He specifically highlighted the powerful performances that anchored the film's success. He pointed to Ranveer Singh's restrained and impactful portrayal as a key strength, a departure from some of the actor's more exuberant roles. Equally, he commended veteran actor Akshaye Khanna's performance, labelling it a masterclass in acting. For Bhandarkar, these elements combined to create a movie that simply ruled the cinematic landscape of 2025.
The Film's Monumental Success and Industry Impact
'Dhurandhar's' placement at the top of Bhandarkar's list aligns with its staggering commercial and critical reception. The film, directed by 'Uri' fame Aditya Dhar, has been a box office juggernaut. Recent reports indicate the film has crossed the monumental milestone of ₹900 crore in worldwide collections, cementing its place in Bollywood history.
Its success has sparked wide discussion within the industry. Notably, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma claimed that 'Dhurandhar' has exposed a weak formula in mainstream Bollywood, causing a stir. Furthermore, the film has propelled Ranveer Singh into an elite box office history, marking one of the biggest successes of his career. The movie's rampage at the ticket windows has been one of the defining stories of the year in Indian cinema.
Why This Endorsement Matters
Madhur Bhandarkar's choice carries weight because he is a filmmaker respected for his own brand of cinema that often holds a mirror to society. For him to celebrate a large-scale, patriotic action drama like 'Dhurandhar' underscores the film's achievement in blending scale with substance. His endorsement goes beyond mere popularity, touching on craft and performance.
As the year draws to a close, this recognition from a fellow director solidifies 'Dhurandhar's' legacy as more than just a commercial hit. It is being celebrated as a well-crafted film that captivated audiences and critics alike, with powerful acting, sharp direction, and a narrative that resonated deeply, making it Madhur Bhandarkar's undisputed film of the year.
