The Indian spy thriller Dhurandhar has achieved an unexpected milestone by topping the Netflix Pakistan charts, despite never releasing in theatres there. Directed by Aditya Dhar and headlined by Ranveer Singh, the film made its digital debut on January 30 and quickly surged to the number one position on Netflix Pakistan. Screenshots of the ranking soon flooded social media, sparking widespread discussion and highlighting the growing influence of streaming platforms in bypassing traditional cross-border restrictions.

The film’s online success stands in contrast to its theatrical journey. While Dhurandhar was barred from cinema releases in Pakistan and faced limited access in parts of the Middle East, it still managed to gross over 33 million dollars overseas and amassed a global box office total of approximately Rs 1,300 crore, making it one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films worldwide. Its arrival on Netflix eight weeks after theatrical release opened the door to audiences who previously had no legal access to the film, allowing it to gain rapid traction and sustained viewership in Pakistan.

Pakistani viewers have responded strongly to Dhurandhar, particularly praising its performances, research-driven storytelling, and departure from stereotypical portrayals. Several online comments highlighted that the film avoided clichéd visual and linguistic markers often used to depict Pakistanis in Indian cinema. Instead, viewers noted a more grounded representation of Karachi’s Lyari region, its gang politics, and social realities, while keeping the focus on espionage and narrative tension.

Online forums such as Reddit saw an outpouring of positive reactions from Pakistani audiences, many of whom described Dhurandhar as one of the most well-made Bollywood films they had watched. Comments emphasized appreciation for nuanced characterisation, strong casting, and the film’s willingness to address crime and political elements without directly targeting ordinary people. Some viewers even stated their intent to rewatch the film multiple times, reflecting a notable shift in audience perception and engagement across borders.

Dhurandhar’s Netflix success has reignited conversations around how streaming platforms are reshaping cross-border cinema. While distributors previously claimed the film lost nearly 10 million dollars due to its absence from Pakistani and Middle Eastern theatres, its digital performance suggests that streaming can significantly offset such losses while also expanding cultural reach. The film’s blend of real incidents and fictional storytelling has further fueled debates on representation, politics, and shared histories in South Asian cinema.

Featuring a strong ensemble cast that includes Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Arjun Rampal, Dhurandhar continues to generate buzz well beyond its theatrical run. With a sequel already announced and scheduled for release on March 19, anticipation remains high among audiences in both India and Pakistan, proving that compelling storytelling can transcend borders even when traditional release channels are closed.