Late Major Mohit Sharma’s family has urgently approached the Delhi High Court seeking a complete halt on the release of Dhurandhar, the upcoming Ranveer Singh starrer, claiming that the film misrepresents the valiant soldier’s life and sensitive military missions.
A decorated officer of the Indian Army’s Special Forces, Major Mohit Sharma was an Ashoka Chakra and Sena Medal awardee who laid down his life in the line of duty.
Family seeks stay on release of Dhurandhar
According to a report by Bar and Bench, the petition filed by Major Sharma’s parents accuses the makers of drawing heavily from the officer’s covert missions and personal journey without permission from the Indian Army or the martyr’s legal heirs.
The petition claims that online discussions and media reports have repeatedly linked Dhurandhar to Major Sharma’s story, yet the filmmakers have neither acknowledged the inspiration nor contacted the family.
The plea further asserts that:
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“A martyr is not a commercial commodity.”
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No filmmaker has the right to recreate or monetise a soldier’s life story without ensuring accuracy, dignity and lawful approval.
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An unauthorised portrayal infringes Major Sharma’s posthumous personality rights under Article 21, while also violating the privacy and dignity of his family.
Concerns over national security and protocol
The petition also raises grave concerns regarding national security, claiming that the film appears to depict classified tactics, infiltration techniques and Special Forces procedures. The plea states there is no evidence of clearance from the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) — the body responsible for approving portrayals of the Indian Army in films and media.
Parties named in the petition
The respondents include:
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Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
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Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)
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ADGPI
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Director & Co-producer Aditya Dhar
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Jio Studios (Producers)
What the family wants
Major Sharma’s parents have requested the Delhi High Court to:
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Stop the release of Dhurandhar until approval is granted
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Allow a private screening for the family prior to any public release
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Establish a rule mandating prior consent from the Army and the martyr’s legal heirs for all future films inspired by real-life military heroes
This case is likely to set an important precedent for the portrayal of India’s armed forces and martyrs in mainstream cinema.
