Dhurandhar 2: Ahida Sarmai’s small role as Major Iqbal’s daughter adds big emotion
Ahida Sarmai’s brief role in Dhurandhar 2 added a heartfelt emotional layer while humanizing Arjun Rampal’s Major Iqbal. His presence also highlighted the importance of inclusivity in Bollywood storytelling.

In Dhurandhar: Revenge, Where violence, politics and intense drama dominate the screen, you don’t expect a quiet moment – but it happens. A simple scene of young Ahida Sarmai brings a soft, emotional touch to the story. It’s small, but it stays with you, reminding you that even small moments can make a big impact.
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A small moment, a big emotional impact
There is a simple scene in the film that says a lot without doing much. When? Major Iqbal, played by Arjun RampalEnters her house, the mood immediately softens. Their daughter, played by Ahida, is busy painting a family portrait. He sits beside her, admires her work, and shares a tender moment before asking his wife to take him inside.
It’s a small scene, but it does something powerful – it shows a different side of a ruthless man who is otherwise defined by struggle and duty. In that one conversation, the film lets us see Major Iqbal not just as an ISI major, but as a father.
humanizing the antagonist
In high-stakes political dramas the characters – especially the antagonists – often feel distant or larger than life. But Ahida’s presence changes that dynamic for Major Iqbal. Through him the audience connects with Major Iqbal on a personal level. Her vulnerabilities, her love and her quiet emotions are revealed.
This emotional layer adds depth to the narrative. It reminds the audience that behind every uniform is a person with a family, responsibilities and emotional ties. And this balance works beautifully in a film full of tension.
Representation that feels real, not forced
The casting of Ahida Sarmai is also important for another reason – representation. As a child with Down syndrome, her inclusion in a mainstream Bollywood film is a step towards more inclusive storytelling.
What works here is that his character is not treated as a symbol or a statement. He exists naturally and meaningfully within the story. Her role isn’t about highlighting her situation – it’s about showing her as part of a family, just like any child. That subtlety makes the representation real.
A journey supported by courage and support
Beyond the camera, Ahida’s journey is just as inspiring. With the strong support of her family, she has pursued her passion of acting with confidence. His performance in Dhurandhar: Revenge Proves that talent and determination go far beyond boundaries.
At a special screening in Mumbai, the young actor received a heartfelt appreciation from stalwart Apart from director Aditya Dhar, the co-stars are Ranveer Singh, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun. It was a moment that highlighted not only his performance, but the impact he created despite limited screen time.
Does his role really matter?
It’s fair to ask – does such a brief role really make a difference? In this case, the answer is yes. Ahida’s presence may not advance the plot, but it strengthens the emotional core of the film. She gives the audience scope to understand an important character – Major Iqbal.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what a story needs – not more action or drama, but a moment of quiet truth.
The role of Ahida Sarmai is a reminder that even the smallest characters can make the biggest impact. And hopefully, it will also open the door to more inclusive and heartfelt storytelling in mainstream Bollywood.


