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Mumbai: Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri has issued a word of caution to director Aditya Dhar following the success of ‘Dhurandhar 2’, warning him about the “vicious” and “seductive” ecosystem within the film industry.

Reacting to the film’s strong reception, Vivek acknowledged Dhar’s achievement, but urged him to stay grounded amid growing fame and attention.

According to Vivek, the industry can sometimes lure creators into a cycle driven by validation, trends, and external expectations rather than authentic storytelling.

Calling the ecosystem “seductive,” he emphasised how easy it is for filmmakers to lose their original voice while chasing continued success.

“I was in the countryside of California, finally made a trip to LA just to watch Dhurandhar. Shabash. Bravo. Brilliant once again, @AdityaDharFilms. I genuinely don’t know what to say… anything I add may only become noise over something that already speaks for itself. I’d rather call you,” ‘The Kashmir Files’ director wrote on X.

Giving a shoutout to the team which worked on the film’s cinematography and production design, he wrote, “Everyone has done exceptional work. But I want to specifically acknowledge two less celebrated crafts that elevate this film into something far greater: 1. Vikash Nowlakha’s world-class cinematography, and 2. @sainisjohray’s exceptional production design.”

Vivek continued, “In cinema, the camera and production design are married to each other. Unless both are in complete harmony, a film cannot rise to the level of a masterpiece. In Dhurandhar, what we witness is pure synergy. Both Vikash and Saini Johray have done groundbreaking work… work that will stand as a benchmark for a long time. My heartfelt best to both of you. And a special salute.”

“And Aditya, just an unsolicited word from experience: You are sharp, and you know your path. Just stay mindful of the ecosystem, it can be as vicious as it is seductive,” he concluded his note.