Actor Arjun Rampal’s girlfriend, Gabriella Demetriades, has reacted strongly to author Shobhaa De’s criticism of a scene from Dhurandhar 2, calling the remarks “outrageous.” The controversy centres around a moment in the film where Rampal’s character chants “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” which drew criticism from De and sparked debate online.
The issue began after Shobhaa De expressed her disapproval of the scene, suggesting that such elements in films can come across as excessive or unnecessary. Her comments quickly gained attention on social media, leading to mixed reactions from audiences.
Responding to the criticism, Gabriella Demetriades took to social media to defend Arjun Rampal and the film. She criticised De’s remarks, describing them as unfair and unwarranted. Gabriella questioned why expressing a patriotic sentiment in a film should be viewed negatively, particularly when it aligns with the character and narrative.
Her response added momentum to the ongoing debate, with many users weighing in on both sides. Supporters of Gabriella and Rampal argued that films often reflect national pride and that such expressions are not unusual in mainstream cinema. They maintained that the chant should be seen in the context of the story rather than as a standalone political statement.
On the other hand, some users echoed Shobhaa De’s concerns, suggesting that filmmakers should be mindful of how certain elements are portrayed, especially in politically sensitive times. The discussion has since evolved into a broader conversation about patriotism in cinema and how it is represented.
Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar, has been a major talking point since its release, with its themes and performances generating significant buzz. The film features a star-studded cast and has performed strongly at the box office, but it has also been accompanied by multiple debates around its content.
Arjun Rampal’s role in the film has been widely discussed, and the scene in question has now become one of the focal points of the conversation. While some viewers see it as a natural expression of the character’s identity, others have interpreted it differently, leading to differing opinions.
Gabriella Demetriades’ reaction highlights how personal connections can influence public responses to criticism. By stepping in to defend Rampal, she has made her stance clear, emphasising her support for him and the film.
The controversy also underscores the growing influence of social media in shaping narratives around films. Comments from public figures can quickly gain traction, leading to widespread discussions that extend beyond the film itself.
Neither Arjun Rampal nor Shobhaa De has issued any further detailed statement following Gabriella’s response. The debate, however, continues to unfold online, with users sharing their perspectives on patriotism, creative freedom, and audience interpretation.
As Dhurandhar 2 continues its run, the discussion around the film shows no signs of slowing down. The incident serves as another example of how cinema can intersect with broader social and cultural conversations, often sparking differing viewpoints.
