What was supposed to be a celebratory weekend for Indian cinema fans turned into a scene of chaos and property damage as screenings of the high-octane action sequel, Dhurandhar 2, were targeted in coordinated acts of violence across several Canadian provinces.
From slashed screens to pepper spray attacks, the disruptions have left theater owners reeling and the South Asian community demanding answers.
Theaters Under Siege
The most dramatic incidents occurred in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Montreal. On Friday evening, witnesses at a Brampton cinema reported that several masked individuals entered the theater mid-screening. Before security could intervene, the perpetrators used sharp objects to slice the massive projection screens, rendering them useless and forcing the immediate evacuation of hundreds of moviegoers.
In a separate incident in Vaughan, Ontario, the screening was cut short when an unknown substance—believed to be pepper spray—was released into the ventilation system.
“We were finally at the climax of the film when people started coughing and gasping for air,” said Rahul Mehta, who was attending the show with his family. “It wasn’t just a protest; it felt like a deliberate attempt to hurt people. We had to run for the exits.”
A Pattern of Intimidation
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Peel Regional Police and the Montreal Police (SPVM), have launched investigations into the vandalism. While no group has officially claimed responsibility, the attacks mirror a troubling trend of “cinema sabotage” that has plagued the release of major South Asian films in Canada over the last year.
Industry analysts suggest these attacks may be linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions or local theater “turf wars” involving distribution rights. However, for many fans, the motive is secondary to the loss of a safe cultural space.
Global Success Amidst Local Turmoil
Despite the friction in Canada, Dhurandhar 2—starring Ranveer Singh in a career-defining role—is shattering records elsewhere. The film, directed by Aditya Dhar, has already crossed the ₹250 crore mark globally within its opening weekend.
The production house released a brief statement on social media, expressing “deep concern” for the safety of their international audience while thanking fans for their “unwavering support in the face of adversity.”
Security Ramped Up
In response to the violence, several major theater chains, including Cineplex and Landmark, have announced enhanced security measures for all South Asian film screenings. This includes bag checks, a visible police presence in lobbies, and the use of night-vision monitoring inside auditoriums.
As of Sunday, some independent theaters have chosen to pull the film from their schedules entirely, citing an inability to guarantee the safety of their patrons. To
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