Fans urge makers to re-release Shah Rukh Khan starrer Dunki amid US Deportations, say it has 'become more relevant now'

In recent weeks, the United States has ramped up deportations of Indian nationals who entered the country illegally, often through treacherous backdoor routes.

Rajkumar Hirani, known for weaving compelling narratives that blend entertainment with social relevance, tackled the issue of illegal immigration in his 2023 film Dunki. Through his signature mix of humor, emotion, and drama, he shed light on the dangerous ‘Dunki route’—a perilous journey many Indians undertake in pursuit of a better life abroad. Now, as reports of mass deportations flood the news, netizens are calling for the film’s re-release, believing its message holds greater significance in today’s climate.

In recent weeks, the United States has ramped up deportations of Indian nationals who entered the country illegally, often through treacherous backdoor routes. Many of those sent back have shared gut-wrenching accounts of their experiences—enduring extreme terrains, falling victim to human trafficking, and ultimately facing arrest and deportation. With real-life stories echoing Dunki’s core theme, audiences argue that the film deserves another theatrical run to highlight the ongoing crisis.

Many X (formerly Twitter) users are of the opinion that this is the best time to re-release Dunki, which depicts the pain of these immigrants.

One user wrote, “#Dunki should be re-released—it’s the perfect time, and I’m sure it will surpass its first-run earnings. The timing couldn’t be better.”

Another added, “SRK and Raju Hirani should re-release Dunki now that illegal immigration is in the news. People face worse than just handcuffs when caught. And at least India is accepting them back—China refuses to take in (though this time they’ve said they will).”

Dunki should re-release in Punjab!!! They are putting their life at stake to go there and what happens to them is a different story altogether! If your family is forcing you to do the same, leave them, they will take all the perks sitting here and you will be putting your life at https://t.co/2Md6obADfO

Prernaa (@theprernaa) February 6, 2025

#Dunki should've been released during the height of the trump presidency, minus the love story angle and a Lil bit more of the Hirani magic.Don't get me wrong,I still love the film and it's a damn successful film considering what it had to endure during its release but still karan! (@iamkaran_101) February 6, 2025

@RajkumarHirani#Dunki should be re-releasedits the perfect time, and Im sure it will surpass its first-run earnings. The timing couldnt be better.

MrSharma (@TheVivekSharma) February 6, 2025

Dunki boasts a stellar ensemble cast, featuring Shah Rukh Khan alongside talented actors Boman Irani, Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, Vikram Kochhar, and Anil Grover, each bringing vibrant characters to life. The film is a collaboration between JIO Studios, Red Chillies Entertainment, and Rajkumar Hirani Films, with Rajkumar Hirani and Gauri Khan serving as producers. Crafted by the acclaimed writing trio of Abhijat Joshi, Rajkumar Hirani, and Kanika Dhillon, Dunki hit the big screen on December 21, 2023.