Dhurandhar 2 Shoot Halted: Location Manager Faces FIR Over Unauthorized Drone Use in Mumbai

The much-anticipated action thriller Dhurandhar 2 has hit an unexpected roadblock. What was supposed to be a routine day of filming in Mumbai’s historic Fort area turned into a legal nightmare when authorities discovered an unauthorized drone hovering over one of the city’s most security-sensitive zones.

A Seemingly Normal Shoot Day Goes Wrong

February 1, 2026, started like any other day on set for the cast and crew of Dhurandhar: The Revenge. The production had transformed Ballard Estate into a vintage Pakistani street scene, complete with period-accurate props and careful attention to detail. Superstar Sanjay Dutt was present along with the entire team, working through their third consecutive day of shooting at this prime location.

But behind the scenes, trouble was brewing. While cameras rolled and directors called action, a drone quietly captured aerial footage overhead—without the necessary permissions.

The Legal Trouble Unfolds

Mumbai Police swiftly intervened when they discovered the violation. Rinku Rajpal Valmiki, serving as the location manager for the production, found himself at the center of the controversy. The MRA Marg police station registered an FIR against him under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which addresses willful disobedience of lawful orders issued by public servants.

The charges aren’t minor technicalities. Flying drones in high-security areas without explicit authorization raises serious concerns about public safety and national security protocols. The Fort area of South Mumbai, where Ballard Estate is located, falls under strict surveillance and security measures due to its strategic importance and proximity to sensitive installations.

What Went Wrong with Permissions?

Here’s where things get interesting. The production team wasn’t completely negligent—they had done their homework, or so they thought. They secured general filming permissions from the Maharashtra Film, Stage and Cultural Development Corporation Limited, the official body that oversees such activities in the state.

However, drone operations require an entirely separate layer of approval, especially in designated high-security zones. This critical oversight proved costly. The distinction between standard filming permits and specialized drone authorizations is something many production houses have struggled with as aerial cinematography becomes increasingly popular in Indian cinema.

The Aftermath: Production on Pause

Following the incident, Valmiki was taken into custody for questioning by authorities. While he was later released, the FIR remains active as investigations continue. More significantly for the film’s stakeholders, the entire shoot has been temporarily suspended.

This delay comes at a crucial time for Dhurandhar 2, which is slated for theatrical release on March 19, 2026. With just over a month until the premiere date, any extended halt could have cascading effects on post-production schedules, promotional activities, and potentially the release date itself.

A Growing Concern in the Film Industry

This incident highlights a broader challenge facing modern filmmakers. As technology advances and directors increasingly rely on drones for stunning aerial shots, the regulatory framework hasn’t always kept pace. What makes for breathtaking cinema can clash with security protocols, especially in a city like Mumbai where colonial-era architecture meets contemporary security concerns.

The Ballard Estate location choice itself was perfect for recreating historical Pakistani streets—its British-era buildings and wide boulevards provide authentic backdrops. But this same historical significance places it within zones that require extra scrutiny for aerial surveillance of any kind.

What Happens Next?

The production team now faces the task of regularizing their permissions and potentially re-shooting scenes if the captured drone footage cannot be used. Legal proceedings will determine the extent of consequences for the location manager, though industry insiders suggest this may be treated as an administrative oversight rather than a deliberate violation.

For Sanjay Dutt and the rest of the cast, it’s an unwelcome pause in what promised to be an action-packed sequel. The actor, known for his professionalism, has reportedly been cooperating fully with authorities and production management to resolve the situation swiftly.

Lessons for Future Productions

This episode serves as a wake-up call for the entire Indian film industry. As productions become more ambitious and technology-driven, coordination with local authorities must evolve accordingly. Some key takeaways include:

The importance of distinguishing between general filming permits and specialized equipment authorizations cannot be overstated. What works in open locations may not apply in security-sensitive areas. Location managers need comprehensive checklists that account for every piece of equipment, especially drones and aerial photography tools.

Communication with local police stations and security agencies should begin well before cameras start rolling. In cities like Mumbai, where every neighborhood has its own security considerations, advance coordination isn’t just good practice—it’s essential.

The Road Ahead

Despite this setback, industry observers remain optimistic about Dhurandhar 2‘s prospects. The original film built a strong fan base, and anticipation for the sequel remains high. Once permissions are sorted and filming resumes, the production can get back on track.

The incident, while unfortunate, also demonstrates the seriousness with which Indian authorities treat security protocols—a reassurance in times when public safety concerns are paramount. For the film industry, it’s a reminder that creativity must always work hand-in-hand with compliance.

As investigations continue and the production team works to resolve the issues, fans eagerly await news of when their favorite action star will return to the Mumbai streets—this time with all the right paperwork in place.

Stay tuned for updates on Dhurandhar 2’s production schedule and release plans as this story develops.

 

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