Image Source: YouTube | JioStudios and B62 Studios
Ranveer Singh’s massive action-thriller Dhurandhar hit theaters today, marking the actor’s triumphant return to the big screen. After a slow start in morning shows, the film roared back in the afternoon and evening, defying all commercial concerns to post a sensational opening day. The initial verdict from critics and colleagues is effusive, with the performance already being hailed as Ranveer’s “career-best.”
The final estimated Day 1 collection stands at over ₹21 Crore Net India, confirming the film’s status as a major success. This massive debut breaks two significant records, positioning Dhurandhar as the ultimate blockbuster release of 2025.
The Record-Breaking Runtime Challenge Conquered
Day 1 Triumph: ₹21.77 Crore Net India
The film, budgeted at a colossal ₹250 Crore, secured an estimated ₹21.77 Crore Net India on its opening day. This strong total discredits the initial slow morning shows and highlights the power of the afternoon and evening surges fueled by positive word-of-mouth (WOM).
Post-Pandemic Best: Ranveer’s Triumphant Return
The ₹21.77 Crore opening immediately secures a new record for the star: it is Ranveer Singh’s best post-pandemic opening, surpassing previous hits like Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and 83.
Biggest Opening of 2025 So Far
The film has also secured the title of the Biggest Opening of 2025 so far, successfully dethroning the highly successful romantic drama, Saiyaara (which opened to ₹21.50 Crore).
The Runtime Crisis: Challenges Successfully Overcome
The 3 Hour 34 Minute Gamble
The final verified runtime of 3 hours and 34 minutes and the film’s ‘A’ (Adults Only) certificate were considered significant commercial hurdles. Longer runtimes limit the number of shows, while the ‘A’ rating restricts access to the crucial family audience.
However, the final Day 1 numbers prove that strong content and star power can override these restrictions. Audiences were compelled to dedicate the required time and flocked to the limited screenings.
The Critical Divide: Praise Vs. Commercial Reality
Deepika Padukone Leads the Cheers
Despite the high-risk factors, critical acclaim for Ranveer Singh’s performance is unanimous. The highest praise came from actor and wife, Deepika Padukone, who posted a glowing review on social media:2
“Worth every minute of those 3.34 hours. Ranveer is phenomenal. A game-changer.”
This influential support from his spouse, validating the quality of the long film, confirms the massive artistic success and quality execution that drove the final box office rebound.
The Sequel Statement: Confidence Amid the Stumble
Part 2 Announcement: Dhurandhar Part 2 (March 19, 2026)
In one of the boldest moves in recent memory, the makers confirmed their long-term confidence in the project by announcing Dhurandhar Part 2 during the post-credits sequence, slated for release on March 19, 2026. This firm commitment to the franchise’s plot and scale signals that the makers believe the quality will continue to win over the numbers, ensuring a major success story for the Dhurandhar franchise.
Conclusion: A High-Stakes Wager on Artistry Pays Off
Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar has delivered a spectacular Day 1 opening, proving that its high-stakes wager on artistry has paid off handsomely. The film successfully overcame its length and rating hurdles to secure the best opening of Ranveer’s post-pandemic career. The next 48 hours will be critical in determining the full extent of this blockbuster’s final run.
