'Serves a purpose': Rakesh Bedi says 'Dhurandhar' doesn't glorify violence
What's the story
Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi, known for his work in comedic cinema, has recently garnered attention for his role as politician Jameel Jamali in Aditya Dhar's spy drama Dhurandhar. The film is currently enjoying a successful run at the box office and has crossed the ₹480 crore mark within just 15 days of its release. Now, Bedi has spoken about the violence in the movie and teased a darker turn for his character in the sequel.
Violence
Bedi says the film doesn't glorify violence
Bedi told Hindustan Times, "Did Ram kill Ravan without any violence? Now there's a villain who's fierce, and people are terrified of him, of course, there'll be violence on both sides, na?" "You're not telling a story, you're showing it. If you're basing it on real events, it can't be wrapped up in a day. Even the way the villains kill their opponents in Lyari is scary." "One must understand that violence in the film serves a purpose."
Character evolution
Bedi's transition from comedy to complex role
Bedi also spoke about his shift from comedy to a more layered character. He said, "Aditya called me last year to offer me the role of Jameel, who has so much more to him." "He's going to be worse in the sequel, and it 100% gave me the chance to do something different." "Somebody, at last, was trying to extract something else out of me."
Role
'Cunning, scheming, sly': Bedi on his character
He further explained, "Aditya knew that in 50 years, there hadn't been a month when I hadn't performed on stage." "He knew I had seen all colors of people in life to play this role that looks straight but isn't. Jameel is cunning, scheming, sly... there are so many layers to him." "Now that he realizes Hamza is working according to his fancy, he might pull his strings...he might pull the carpet also."
Box office success
'Dhurandhar' has been a major commercial hit
Dhurandhar, which also stars Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, and Sara Arjun in key roles, has been a major commercial hit. The film's narrative of espionage and political intrigue has resonated with both mass and multiplex audiences. Dhurandhar 2 will hit the theaters on March 19, 2026.