Dhurandhar OTT Release: Why Fans are Angry at Netflix's Censored Version

BLUF: The blockbuster movie Dhurandhar premiered on Netflix on January 30, 2026, with a runtime of 3 hours and 25 minutes—approximately 9 to 10 minutes shorter than its 3-hour 34-minute theatrical cut. Despite its 'A' rating, the OTT version features significant censorship, including muted dialogues and edited abusive language, sparking massive backlash from fans who expected an "uncut" experience.

Why is the Dhurandhar OTT Runtime Shorter?

Viewers who rushed to Netflix at midnight were shocked to find a shorter version of the Aditya Dhar directorial. While the theatrical version ran for 214 minutes (3h 34m), the digital version clocks in at just 205 minutes (3h 25m).

The primary reasons for this 9-minute reduction include:

1. Removal of Theatrical Warnings: Approximately 3 minutes were saved by removing the mandatory cinema-only anti-smoking and statutory warnings.
2. International Compliance: Unlike the Indian theatrical release, the Netflix version is a global digital release accessible in regions like Pakistan and the Gulf. Experts suggest scenes were trimmed to comply with international streaming norms and regional sensitivities.
3. Theatrical Revision: Some reports suggest the OTT version is derived from a 208-minute revised theatrical cut rather than the original 214-minute premiere version.

"A-Rated but Muted": The Censorship Controversy

The most significant outcry on social media (X/Twitter) involves the "muting" of dialogues. Fans have pointed out the hypocrisy of an adult-rated ('A') film being censored on a platform where users are verified as over 18.

Complaints have flooded the internet, with users noting that:

• Abusive language is beeped or modified, stripping away the "natural raw vibe" of the spy thriller.
• Comparisons to other hits: Viewers are asking why Dhurandhar is censored when other 'A' rated hits like Animal and Kabir Singh streamed without edits.
• Mood-killing edits: Many feel the "raw and rustic" experience of the Karachi-based gang wars has been diluted for the digital audience.

My Personal Observation (Dev Perspective)

As a student developer who has been tracking web trends and digital media for years, I find this "stealth-censorship" a fascinating look at 2026 streaming ethics. While Netflix bought the rights for both parts of this saga, their decision to release a "cleaner" version suggests a shift toward corporate safety over creative freedom. I used a custom script to compare these runtimes the moment the clock hit 12:00 AM, and the discrepancy was immediate.

Dhurandhar Box Office: A Historic Milestone

Before its digital debut, Dhurandhar rewrote the history books. It is the first single-language Indian film to gross over ₹1,000 crore at the domestic box office.

• Worldwide Collection: Over ₹1,301 crore (with some reports citing up to ₹1,428 crore).
• India Net: Approximately ₹890.67 crore, making it the highest-grossing Hindi film ever in India.

Key Takeaways for Fans

• Release Date: January 30, 2026, on Netflix.
• Languages: Available in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.
• Cuts: 9–10 minutes trimmed from the original theatrical runtime.
• Sequel News: Dhurandhar Part 2 is scheduled for an Eid (March 19, 2026) theatrical release.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is there an uncensored version of Dhurandhar on Netflix?

No. Currently, the version streaming on Netflix features muted dialogues and censored language despite its 'A' rating.

2. Why did Netflix cut 10 minutes from the movie?

The cuts are likely due to the removal of theatrical warnings and edits made for international streaming compliance in regions like the Gulf and Pakistan.

3. When is Dhurandhar Part 2 coming out?

The sequel is set to hit theaters on March 19, 2026, coinciding with the Eid festival.