In a blunt critique of current Bollywood trends, veteran actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui has slammed what he calls “fake” and “propaganda” films. Speaking at an industry event on Sunday, March 15, 2026, the actor warned that cinema is being used to set false narratives that mislead society.
While Nawazuddin avoided naming specific titles, his remarks have sparked a firestorm on social media, with netizens widely interpreting them as a dig at recent blockbusters like Dhurandhar and The Kerala Story.
“Don’t Make Me Open My Mouth”
The 51-year-old actor was participating in a discussion about the responsibility of filmmakers during global crises, specifically referencing the ongoing US–Israel–Iran conflict.
- On “Fake” Films: When asked about the rise of narrative-based cinema, Nawazuddin dismissed the trend, saying, “Jhoothi (false) films are being made. Everyone knows what is happening in the world and what the real truth is.”
- A Warning to Society: He emphasized that filmmakers should not take society in the wrong direction (“Samaj ko galat disha mein le jaane ki zarurat nahi hai”), adding that the truth is visible to everyone even if they choose not to speak it.
- Propaganda Allegations: In a viral clip from the event, Nawazuddin appeared visibly frustrated, telling the moderator, “We all know propaganda movies are being made… Don’t make me open my mouth.”
Netizens Link Remarks to Dhurandhar
The timing of Nawazuddin’s comments is particularly significant as Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar: The Revenge is set to release on March 19.
- The “Tight Slap” Reaction: Social media users quickly drew parallels between his comments and films that have faced “propaganda” labels. One user on X wrote, “Nawaz gives a tight slap to movies like Kerala Story 2 & Dhurandhar.”
- Aditya Dhar in the Crosshairs: Another viral post suggested that Nawazuddin had “wrapped up” (lapet liya) director Aditya Dhar, whose film Dhurandhar has been praised by RGV but criticized by others for its political undertones and perceived similarities to Satya.
Nawazuddin’s Current Projects
- Recent Release: The actor was last seen in the Netflix thriller Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders, where his performance as a gritty investigator received critical acclaim.
- Focus on Content: Known for his roles in realistic cinema like Gangs of Wasseypur and Manto, Nawazuddin has frequently advocated for “authentic” storytelling over commercial “agendas.”