Ranveer Singh’s first look in Dhurandhar has ignited massive curiosity. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the spy action-thriller promises high-octane sequences and covert missions that feel straight out of real intelligence operations. But ever since the teaser dropped, one question has dominated social media and fan discussions: Is Dhurandhar based on the real story of India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval?
While the makers have confirmed that the film is inspired by true events, they have not officially revealed the character’s real-life counterpart. This secrecy has fueled widespread speculation, with two names emerging as possible inspirations — Ajit Doval and Major Mohit Sharma.
Dhurandhar and Ajit Doval Connection
Ajit Doval, India’s current National Security Advisor, is one of the country’s most respected intelligence officers. Known for his deep-cover operations, he famously spent years in Pakistan disguised as a local. Doval’s strategies were also linked to the 2016 surgical strikes, which cemented his reputation as the “James Bond of India.”
From the teaser, Ranveer Singh’s intense look and action-heavy persona have led fans to believe he might be playing a younger version of Ajit Doval. Adding to the theory, reports suggest that R Madhavan could be portraying the older, mature Doval, with the narrative spanning several decades of Indian intelligence history.
Major Mohit Sharma Theory
A growing section of the internet, however, believes that the film may actually focus on Major Mohit Sharma, one of India’s most daring Para Special Forces officers. Sharma infiltrated terror networks in Pakistan under the alias “Iqbal,” earning the trust of militants while gathering intelligence — a feat achieved by very few operatives.
He was awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, posthumously in 2009 after being killed in action during an encounter in Kashmir’s Kupwara sector. Sharma had earlier received a Sena Medal for gallantry in 2005 and the COAS Commendation Card for counter-terrorism duties during Operation Rakshak.
In Dhurandhar’s first look, Ranveer Singh appears in a youthful, bearded avatar resembling Major Sharma during his covert operations. Scenes showing Singh disguised like a militant, fighting terrorists, and blowing up vehicles align closely with the real-life exploits of the Para SF officer.
Evidence from Trailer and Fan Theories
- Appearance: Singh’s rugged look strongly mirrors Sharma’s undercover identity.
- Action sequences: Violent face-offs with militants resemble Sharma’s infiltration missions.
- Reddit discussions: Several users claim Singh plays Sharma, while Madhavan embodies Ajit Doval, linking two parallel narratives.
- Timeline clues: Although some speculated the story is set in the 1980s–90s, visuals of smartphones, wired earphones, and posters of Benazir Bhutto suggest a timeline in the 2000s. This matches the period of Sharma’s active missions.
Who’s Ranveer Singh Really Playing?
As of now, the production team has deliberately kept the characters under wraps. Social media is split: one section insists Ranveer Singh portrays Ajit Doval’s younger years, while another believes he plays Major Mohit Sharma, with Madhavan possibly portraying Doval as a mentor figure.
What’s clear is that the film is weaving a story deeply rooted in India’s espionage history, pulling from both well-known and lesser-known figures.
Why Dhurandhar Stands Out
Unlike generic spy thrillers, Dhurandhar appears to be anchored in real operations and unsung heroes of India’s intelligence and armed forces. This grounded approach, combined with Aditya Dhar’s flair for spectacle, positions the film to be one of 2026’s most talked-about releases.
Dhurandhar’s Real Story Mystery
The debate over whether Dhurandhar is based on Ajit Doval, Major Mohit Sharma, or a combination of multiple operatives remains unresolved. The official word from the makers is that the film is inspired by “true events,” leaving audiences to connect the dots.
For now, Ranveer Singh’s commanding transformation, R Madhavan’s rumored role, and Aditya Dhar’s vision ensure that Dhurandhar will keep fans guessing until its release. Whether it’s Doval, Sharma, or a fictional composite of India’s bravest operatives, the film already succeeds in paying tribute to the unseen world of Indian intelligence.
