Arjun Rampal is set to captivate audiences with his upcoming role in the action thriller Dhurandhar, scheduled to release in theaters on December 5, 2025. Directed by Aditya Dhar, known for Uri: The Surgical Strike, Dhurandhar boasts a star-studded cast including Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, and Akshaye Khanna. Rampal's character in Dhurandhar is generating significant buzz, with the actor sporting a striking and unconventional look.
Rampal's transformation for the role includes a golden tooth, metal-rimmed shades, and a dense, grey beard, creating a raw and weathered appearance. This unique look hints at a morally complex character within the film's high-stakes narrative. The actor himself has expressed excitement about the project, noting that Dhurandhar is unlike anything he has done before. He praised the film's extensive research and the dedication of the entire team. Rampal described the story as having a certain "grudge and grey shade," making it a very new and unseen experience for the audience.
While the specific details of Rampal's character remain under wraps, the film is reportedly inspired by real-life events and covert operations of RAW (Research and Analysis Wing), India's external intelligence agency. Some reports suggest the plot is inspired by the life and career of Ajit Doval, India's National Security Advisor. Dhurandhar follows a covert officer navigating complex political conspiracies, national security threats, and personal dilemmas. The film blends high-octane action with themes of unwavering patriotism, focusing on the lives of unsung heroes involved in covert operations.
In discussing his approach to selecting scripts, Arjun Rampal emphasizes the importance of honesty and a strong belief system within the character. "It has to be real and honest for me," he stated, adding, "It has to have a very strong belief system of that character, and once it does, I can build from there". Rampal looks for roles that challenge him and offer something new to explore. He has also expressed a desire to take on roles in period films, whether historical, dystopian, or mythological, that immerse him in a new world.
Rampal's filmography showcases his versatility and willingness to take on challenging roles, both positive and negative. He has often been lauded for his ability to portray complex characters with simplicity and conviction. While he has played numerous positive roles, Rampal acknowledges that filmmakers are often drawn to cast him in negative parts. He believes this may be because he approaches these characters with honesty, seeking to find their human side rather than portraying them as simply "bad people".
Looking ahead, besides Dhurandhar, Arjun Rampal has several other projects in the pipeline. These include Nikita Roy, Crakk - Jeetegaa... Toh Jiyegaa, Mystery Of The Tattoo, Aankhen 2, The Battle Of Bhima Koregaon, and The Rapist.
