When Aditya Dhar debunked AI-generated Ranveer Singh image from 'Dhurandhar 2': 'I urge audiences to rely only on official content'

Filmmaker Aditya Dhar had earlier responded to a viral image linked to 'Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge', clarifying that it has no connection with the film. Days before the release of the film, the picture, widely circulated on social media, appeared to show Ranveer Singh's character, Jaskirat, smoking while wearing a turban. The image quickly attracted criticism and sparked online discussions.Addressing the issue, Aditya Dhar released an official statement on Instagram. He explained that the viral visual was digitally altered using artificial intelligence and was never part of the film's promotional campaign. According to the filmmaker, the image was created to spread false information and mislead audiences.

Aditya Dhar called the image 'Manipulated'

In his statement, Aditya Dhar accused unidentified individuals of misusing official promotional material to create misleading content through AI.He wrote, "...it has come to my attention that certain individuals are circulating manipulated visuals, by morphing officially released promotional material using artificial intelligence to create false and misleading narratives."The director stressed that the viral image does not belong to the film in any form and was created solely to provoke controversy.He further said, "One such fabricated image falsely depicts the character Hamza/Jaskirat smoking while wearing a turban.

This is completely untrue and does not form part of the film or any official material released by us. It is a deliberate act of misrepresentation intended to provoke and create mischief."

Director defended Sikh representation in the film

Aditya Dhar also addressed concerns surrounding the portrayal of Sikh characters in 'Dhurandhar 2'. He stated that every aspect of the representation had been handled with sensitivity and respect throughout the filmmaking process.Rejecting claims made through the manipulated image, he said, "Let me state this unequivocally: I hold the highest respect for the Sikh community, and every portrayal in the film has been handled with utmost sensitivity, dignity, and responsibility. Any attempt to suggest otherwise through any doctored content is malicious and dishonest."The filmmaker reiterated that the viral post should not be mistaken for any official material connected to the project.

Warning against AI misinformation

Calling on audiences to remain cautious, Aditya Dhar urged fans not to believe AI-generated posts circulating online. He encouraged viewers to rely only on verified updates released by the film's team.He concluded, "I urge audiences to rely only on official content and watch the film as it is intended, and not fall prey to AI-generated misinformation being circulated with ulterior motives. Such acts will be dealt with firmly."Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge is the sequel to Dhurandhar (2025), which emerged as the highest-grossing Hindi film of its release year. The sequel to action entertainer also turned out to be a blockbuster and audiences are eagerly waiting for Aditya's upcoming projects.