New Delhi: Social media erupted after Preet Padda, sister of Aneet Padda, posted a series of comments calling the Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar: The Revenge a "propaganda film" and seemingly criticizing Priyanka Chopra for her silence during the Oscars on the "Free Palestine" slogan.
The posts quickly went viral, drawing criticism, memes, and heated debate across X and other social platforms.
In one of her posts, Preet wrote, "Normally, I don't bother, because clearly trying to change someone's mind here is like trying to teach cats to do calculus. But, since you've so generously invested your precious time reacting to every little thing I've reposted, I thought, why not? Let's go point by point, just so I can try to understand your apparently endless issues with my stance."
Regarding the film Dhurandhar 2, she added, "For Dhurandhar, it literally serves as a government-friendly narrative, using political speeches to justify, say, the minor hiccup of demonetisation. Call it propaganda? Yep. Deny it? Not a chance. But maybe your definition of propaganda is...different, who knows."
She also commented on The Kashmir Files, calling it politically charged and pointing out how cinema can influence narratives.
Preet further took a subtle jab at Priyanka Chopra, calling her a "dodo bird" for staying silent on social issues during the Oscars, sparking speculation that the remark was aimed at the actor.
The posts triggered widespread criticism. A user wrote: "There's a fine line between being liberal and being stupid. She has crossed that line… ppl keep saying Dhurandhar is propaganda film. Why? All those events took place didn't they? Some are fiction and some are real events."
Another said: "Saiyaara actress Aneet Padda follows Hasan Piker on social media. He is the same person who called India a rogue terror state during Operation Sindoor. Aneet's sister is also a hardcore leftist who mocks her own country. It makes sense why YRF cast her, as they have a history of giving work to people like Vishal Dadlani."
Many questioned the relevance of her opinion: "Who is Aneet Padda? Who is Aneet Padda's sister? How does her opinion matter?"
Reports, unverified and circulating online, mentioned that Preet's boyfriend is a Pakistani national, which added more attention to the controversy. Social media users debated this, though no official confirmation exists.
Following the backlash, Preet reportedly made her Instagram account private.