Following its record-breaking run at the global box office, Aditya Dhar’s spy thriller Dhurandhar made its digital debut on Netflix today, January 30, 2026. However, the film's transition to streaming has been met with immediate backlash from fans who noticed a significant discrepancy in runtime and content between the theatrical and digital versions. ‘Dhurandhar’ OTT Release Faces Backlash Over Muted Dialogues and 10-Minute Runtime Cuts.

The 10-Minute Discrepancy

Viewers quickly pointed out that the version of Dhurandhar currently streaming on Netflix clocks in at 3 hours and 25 minutes, nearly 10 minutes shorter than the original theatrical runtime of 3 hours and 34 minutes. While minor variations are common due to the removal of cinema-specific elements, the nearly double-digit gap has led to accusations of heavy trimming by the streaming platform. Social media platforms have been flooded with complaints under the hashtag #DhurandharCensored, with fans expressing frustration that the OTT version lacks the "raw energy" they experienced in theatres during its December 2025 release.

Muted Dialogues in OTT Version Anger Fans

A major portion of the missing time and altered experience stems from the muting of profanity and sensitive political references. Despite the film carrying an 'A' (Adults Only) certification, the Netflix version features numerous muted cuss words and modified dialogues. Reportedly, specific geopolitical terms and references to intelligence operations which were heard clearly in cinemas—have been softened or excised. This has baffled many subscribers, as OTT platforms are typically expected to provide the "uncut" vision of a director, especially for mature-rated content. Fact Check: Is Ranveer Singh’s ‘Dhurandhar 2’ Postponed To Avoid Box Office Clash With Yash’s ‘Toxic’? Truth Behind Viral Release Date Posts on X.

Fans Reaction:

Comparison With ‘Animal’ and ‘Kabir Singh’

The censorship has sparked unfavourable comparisons with other recent 'A' rated blockbusters. Fans on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit have highlighted those films like Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal and Kabir Singh were released on streaming services with their intensity and language largely intact. "If Animal and Kabir Singh could stream without these distracting mutes, why is Dhurandhar being treated differently?" questioned one viral post. The sentiment among the audience is that the "sanitisation" of the film on Netflix contradicts the purpose of a subscription-based, adult-certified platform.

Fans Reaction:

Theatrical vs OTT Requirements

Industry insiders suggest that some of the runtime difference is technical. The theatrical version includes mandatory elements such as:

  • Anti-tobacco and health warnings.

  • The CBFC (Censor Board) certificate display.

  • Extended distributor and partner credits.

While these usually account for 3 to 4 minutes of footage, they are often removed for a "cleaner" streaming experience. However, this only explains a fraction of the 10-minute gap, with the remainder attributed to the reported scene cuts and dialogue alterations. ‘Dhurandhar’ OTT Release Date in January 2026: Will Ranveer Singh and Aditya Dhar’s Film Stream on Netflix or JioHotstar?

‘Dhurandhar’s Commercial Success

The controversy comes amidst a historic run for the film. Dhurandhar, starring Ranveer Singh, Sara Arjun, Akshaye Khanna and R. Madhavan, has already grossed over INR 1,300 crore worldwide, becoming one of the most successful Indian films of all time. As of now, neither Netflix India nor the film’s producers have issued a formal statement regarding the edits. With the sequel, Dhurandhar 2, already scheduled for a theatrical release on March 19, 2026, the debate over its digital treatment is expected to continue.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 30, 2026 02:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).