Reel vs Real: Is SRK's Dunki a true story based on Donkey-flight & India-Canada immigration issue?

Shah Rukh Khan's Dunki marks his first collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani

Bollywood Shah-Rukh-Khan Dunki

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is enjoying a successful year with two blockbusters, "Pathan" and "Jawan," under his belt. His fans are eagerly anticipating his next release, "Dunki," scheduled to hit theaters on December 22, 2023.

What makes this film even more intriguing is that it marks Shah Rukh Khan's first collaboration with renowned filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, known for his hits like "3 Idiots" and "Munna Bhai MBBS."

If you haven’t watched the Dunki trailer yet, Here’s the trailer:

Now, the question arises: Is SRK’s Dunki based on Donkey-flight & India-Canada immigration issue or is it a work of fiction? To find out the answer, keep reading….

Is Dunki based on Donkey-flight & India-Canada immigration issue?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. Recently, reports have surfaced suggesting the possible answer for the storyline of "Dunki." Here’s the possible storylines:

A Sensitive Tale of Immigration

Earlier reports hinted that "Dunki" revolves around the struggles of migrants in search of a better life. However, amidst ongoing tensions between India and Canada, rumors circulated that the film's plot might be based on the concept of 'Donkey Flight,' which relates to border immigration issues.

Contrary to these speculations, insiders have clarified that "Dunki's" storyline is not set in Canada nor does it focus on Indians living there.

According to a source, "While the film does deal with the issue of immigration, it isn't based in Canada or has anything to do with Indians based in Canada." The report further emphasizes that "Dunki" is a sensitively crafted film that explores a man's journey in search of a better life, delving into the various emotions he experiences along the way.

Also Read: Is Lahore 1947 based on a true story? All about Sunny Deol-Aamir Khan's new project

Decoding 'Donkey Flight'

But what exactly is 'Donkey Flight'? This term refers to an illegal method – a backdoor route often taken by immigrants attempting to enter a foreign country through multiple stops in other nations due to their inability to secure a visa through legitimate means.

The announcement video of "Dunki" featured scenes of people crossing a desert, seemingly attempting to cross a border while a plane flew overhead.

Shah Rukh Khan's perspective on "Dunki"

Speaking about the film, Shah Rukh Khan expressed his excitement, saying, "Raj Kumar Hirani is one of the finest filmmakers of this generation.

We have always talked about working together, and I am extremely happy that we are finally doing it with 'Dunki.' We have just started shooting this month, and I am cherishing every moment of it. Raju ke liye main Donkey, Monkey...kuch bhi ban sakta hoon!" (For Raju, I can be anything - a donkey, a monkey, or anything else).

A stellar ensemble for "Dunki"

"Dunki" boasts a star-studded cast, including Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, Boman Irani, and Satish Kaushik, all playing pivotal roles in this highly anticipated film.

Anticipation grows as release day nears

As the release date approaches, fans are eager to see how Shah Rukh Khan and Rajkumar Hirani bring this immigration-themed story to life on the big screen, separating reel from reality.


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