14 April 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Filmmaker Kunal Kohli has stirred debate in the film industry with his candid remarks about the reception of Dhurandhar, revealing that several top directors had expected the Ranveer Singh starrer to falter at the box office.
Speaking in a recent interaction, Kohli said that many in the industry believed the film would struggle after its opening weekend. “Monday ko baith jaayegi,” he quoted, suggesting that there was a strong perception that Dhurandhar would not sustain momentum beyond the initial days.
The statement has sparked conversations about internal competition and skepticism within Bollywood, where industry insiders often form early opinions about a film’s commercial prospects.
Dhurandhar, which features Ranveer Singh in a high-energy role, opened to strong collections and quickly became a talking point for both audiences and critics. Despite mixed reviews, the film managed to pull crowds to theatres, driven by star power, marketing, and initial curiosity.
Kohli’s remarks highlight a lesser-discussed aspect of the film industry—how filmmakers and insiders sometimes anticipate or even hope for the failure of certain projects. While competition is a natural part of the business, such candid admissions have drawn attention to the pressures and rivalries that exist behind the scenes.
According to Kohli, the skepticism around Dhurandhar was not entirely unfounded. He noted that the film’s genre and treatment were considered risky, and there were doubts about how well it would connect with a wider audience.
However, the film’s performance defied those expectations, at least in its early run. Box office numbers indicated strong occupancy in several regions, and the film benefited from positive word-of-mouth in key markets.
Ranveer Singh’s performance has been a major talking point. Known for his energetic screen presence and versatility, the actor once again delivered a performance that resonated with fans. His ability to carry a film on his shoulders has been cited as one of the key reasons behind Dhurandhar’s initial success.
The controversy also sheds light on the unpredictability of box office outcomes. In recent years, several films that were expected to fail have turned into hits, while others with high expectations have underperformed.
Industry analysts point out that audience preferences have evolved significantly. Content, storytelling, and relatability now play a crucial role in determining a film’s success, often outweighing pre-release assumptions.
Kohli’s comments have also reignited discussions about the role of trade expectations and media narratives in shaping public perception. Early predictions about a film’s fate can influence audience interest, either positively or negatively.
At the same time, some voices within the industry have called for a more supportive environment, where filmmakers encourage each other rather than speculate about failures. The success of one film, they argue, contributes to the overall growth of the industry.
Social media has amplified the impact of such statements, with fans and commentators weighing in on Kohli’s remarks. While some have appreciated his honesty, others have criticized the negativity implied in the comments.
The episode also reflects the high stakes involved in Bollywood filmmaking. With large budgets, extensive marketing campaigns, and intense competition, the pressure to succeed is immense.
For Dhurandhar, the real test lies in its long-term performance. While the opening numbers have been promising, sustaining momentum over the weeks will determine whether it can be considered a true box office success.
Kohli’s remarks serve as a reminder that behind every film release lies a complex mix of expectations, doubts, and competition. The journey from release to success is rarely straightforward, and outcomes often defy predictions.
In conclusion, Kunal Kohli’s revelation that several top directors expected Dhurandhar to flop has sparked a broader conversation about industry dynamics and the unpredictability of box office success. As the film continues its run, it remains to be seen whether it can silence critics and sustain its early momentum.
Summary
Kunal Kohli revealed many top directors expected Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar to flop after Monday, sparking debate on Bollywood rivalry as the film defies early skepticism with strong initial box office performance.