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As Dhurandhar draws praise for its performances, casting director Mukesh Chhabra addresses the debate around the age difference between Ranveer Singh and Sara Arjun, stating that the casting was rooted in the script and that fuller clarity will emerge with the sequel.
Mukesh Chhabra says age gap was required for the story.
Mumbai: Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar, released on December 5 and has received strong appreciation for its gripping narrative and powerful performances. Along with the praise, the film also triggered intense discussion online, particularly around the noticeable age difference between lead actors Ranveer Singh and Sara Arjun. The nearly twenty year age gap became a talking point soon after the teaser release, with audiences questioning the creative choice behind the casting.
Addressing the discussion, casting director Mukesh Chhabra clarified that the age gap between the two actors was intentional and essential to the story. He explained that the role demanded a very young character and that the casting followed a clear narrative brief. According to him, the storyline required a girl around twenty or twenty one years of age, making the decision deliberate rather than arbitrary. He added that many of the questions being raised will find their answers when the sequel reaches theatres next year.
Mukesh Chhabra stressed that the casting decision was not due to a lack of suitable actors in other age groups. He pointed out that the industry has several capable performers in their mid twenties who could have played the role. However, the film demanded a specific age dynamic to support the plot. He admitted that while not every creative choice can be explained immediately, the age difference aligns with the narrative logic of Dhurandhar. He also shared that he found many social media debates amusing, as they overlooked the context of the story.
The casting director also spoke in detail about selecting Sara Arjun from a pool of nearly thirteen hundred auditions. He said the team was keen on introducing a face that felt fresh and authentic to the world of the film. While Sara has worked as a child actor in the past, the makers wanted to present her in a completely new light. Chhabra revealed that he has known Sara for years and had seen her growth as an actor through multiple auditions. What stood out during her audition was the depth of talent beneath her gentle screen presence.
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Chhabra expressed satisfaction that filmmakers are increasingly offering opportunities to newcomers. He noted that Dhurandhar aimed to build its own cinematic world, and surprise casting played a key role in achieving that realism. Sara’s performance, according to him, carries layers that will become even more evident in the sequel. He hinted that audiences will see a stronger and more evolved version of her character when the second installment releases.
Dhurandhar features Ranveer Singh in the lead role, supported by a strong ensemble that includes Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, Akshaye Khanna and R Madhavan. The film balances experienced performers with emerging talent, adding depth to its storytelling. This blend has been widely appreciated, with performances contributing significantly to the film’s impact.
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The makers have confirmed that Dhurandhar 2 is scheduled to release on March 19, 2026. Mukesh Chhabra emphasized that many of the debates surrounding the first film, including the casting choices, will make greater sense once audiences see the continuation of the story. He believes the sequel will provide context and resolution, reinforcing that the creative decisions were guided by narrative necessity rather than controversy.
