Jaisalmer, March 28, 2026 | Filmmaker Karan Johar booked an entire single-screen theatre in Jaisalmer to watch Dhurandhar-2, describing the experience as nostalgic and deeply emotional.
The private screening took place on March 27 at Ramesh Talkies, where Johar was accompanied by a few members of his team. The filmmaker is currently in the city for the shoot of his reality show.
Nostalgic Single-Screen Experience
After watching the film, Johar said the single-screen setting brought back memories of his early years. He described the experience as reminiscent of the 1970s, when such theatres were the primary venues for cinema viewing.
Ramesh Talkies, around 39 years old, is one of Jaisalmer’s most popular theatres and a key attraction for tourists due to its heritage charm combined with modern facilities.
The theatre’s operator, Mangilal Kalla, said Johar and his team spent nearly five hours at the venue and also interacted with staff members, taking photographs after the screening.
High Praise for Film and Performances
Johar described Dhurandhar-2 as a powerful and impactful film. He praised director Aditya Dhar for elevating mainstream cinema and setting a new benchmark.
In a social media post, he noted that while the film may spark discussions around themes like masculinity and patriotism, it goes beyond those elements to deliver a compelling cinematic experience.
He also lauded actor Ranveer Singh, calling the performance one of his best to date. Johar highlighted Singh’s emotional depth, expressions, and screen presence, describing him as a “true movie star.”
Emotional Reaction
Johar said the experience of watching the film in a traditional theatre setting made him emotional, as it reminded him of his journey and early dreams of being part of the film industry.
He added that such moments reconnect filmmakers with the roots of cinema and the magic of the big screen.
Busy with ‘The Traitors’ Shoot
Johar is currently shooting the second season of his reality show The Traitors at Suryagarh Palace.
The show, based on an American format, had its first season released in 2025, featuring 20 contestants. Uorfi Javed and Nikita Luther emerged as winners, taking home a prize of ₹70.5 lakh.
A Blend of Work and Nostalgia
Johar’s theatre visit highlights a blend of professional commitments and personal nostalgia during his time in Jaisalmer. His experience also underscores the enduring charm of single-screen cinemas, even in an era dominated by multiplexes and digital streaming platforms.
The filmmaker’s appreciation for Dhurandhar-2 and its team has added to the buzz surrounding the film, with expectations rising for its box office performance.
