What does the unprecedented success of Kunal Kohli’s film Dhurandhar signify for the filmmaker and the Bollywood industry? The answer is clear: it marks a significant turning point in Kohli’s career and highlights the often tumultuous relationship between filmmakers and industry insiders.
Dhurandhar has made history by becoming the first Bollywood film to cross Rs 1000 crore net in India and surpassing Rs 1300 crore at the worldwide box office. Kohli himself noted the lack of support from industry peers, stating, “Nobody supported Dhurandhar. The biggest directors I spoke to said, ‘Monday ko baith jayegi.‘ Yet, it continued to thrive.
This film has not only achieved remarkable financial success but also established itself as the first Indian franchise to earn over Rs 3000 crores globally. Kohli’s journey to this success has not been without its challenges, as he recalled that 99% of the industry does not want filmmakers to succeed.
The backdrop to this success includes Kohli’s earlier work, notably the 2004 romantic comedy Hum Tum, which was a commercial hit and solidified his reputation in the industry. Rakesh Roshan, a prominent figure in Bollywood, even called Kohli to congratulate him on Hum Tum’s success, highlighting the supportive gestures that can sometimes be overshadowed by industry rivalry.
Despite the accolades, Kohli’s previous film, Mujhse Dosti Karoge!, did not fare well at the box office, illustrating the unpredictable nature of film success. His latest venture, Dhurandhar, released in December 2025, has proven that perseverance can lead to triumph, even in the face of skepticism.
Moreover, the film Border 2, another project linked to Kohli, has also performed admirably, collecting over Rs 300 crores. This further cements Kohli’s position as a significant player in the film industry.
As Kohli reflects on his journey, he emphasizes that industry support is not a prerequisite for success: “It doesn’t matter if the industry supports you or not.” This sentiment resonates with many filmmakers who navigate the complex dynamics of Bollywood.
Looking ahead, the future remains bright for Kohli, but uncertainties linger regarding the industry’s evolving landscape and how it will respond to his continued success. Details remain unconfirmed about his next projects, but the momentum from Dhurandhar is likely to influence his future endeavors.
