The massive success of the Dhurandhar franchise has sparked a significant shift in how filmmakers perceive talent from the 1990s and 2000s. Actor Shehzad Khan, son of the legendary Ajit Khan, recently shared his thoughts on how the film’s performance has paved the way for veteran stars to make a powerful return to the big screen. According to Khan, directors are now actively seeking out the hit characters and familiar faces that defined the cinema of previous decades, a trend highlighted by the celebrated comebacks of Akshaye Khanna and Rakesh Bedi in the franchise.
Reflecting on the industry’s changing landscape, Shehzad noted that the Dhurandhar phenomenon has fundamentally altered the mindset of contemporary filmmakers. He believes that the industry operates in cycles, and the current demand for established actors from the 90s and 2000s proves that audiences are eager to see these seasoned performers back in action. The actor emphasized that the system is evolving, as creators look to tap into the nostalgia and proven screen presence of these veteran artists to elevate their modern projects.
However, Khan was quick to draw a line when comparing generations of cinematic villains. While discussing Arjun Rampal’s performance in the film, he maintained that the iconic antagonists of the 1970s—such as Prem Chopra, Ranjeet, and Pran—belong to an entirely different league. He shared a lighthearted anecdote about how impactful those legendary actors were, noting that people once avoided naming their children after them for fear they might emulate their villainous personas on screen.
The Dhurandhar franchise, directed by National Award winner Aditya Dhar and headlined by Ranveer Singh, has become a historic force at the box office. With a star-studded ensemble cast that includes R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, and Rakesh Bedi, the films have reportedly grossed over Rs 3,000 crore worldwide. This monumental success has not only solidified the franchise’s place in cinema history but has also reignited a conversation about the enduring value of veteran Bollywood actors.