Mass Food Poisoning Halts Dhurandhar Shoot in Leh: Over 120 Crew Members Hospitalized
Leh, Ladakh – August 19, 2025: A major health scare struck the sets of Bollywood star Ranveer Singh’s highly anticipated spy thriller Dhurandhar, when more than 120 crew members were hospitalized due to severe food poisoning. The incident disrupted shooting in the remote and high-altitude terrains of Leh, bringing the big-budget production to a sudden standstill.
Chaos on Set
The mass illness broke out late Sunday evening after crew members consumed food catered on location near the popular Patthar Sahib Gurudwara shooting site. Within hours, dozens of technicians, junior artists, and staff began suffering from acute stomach pain, repeated vomiting, severe dehydration, and gastroenteritis symptoms.
Officials at SNM Hospital in Leh, where the victims were rushed, confirmed it was a case of mass food poisoning. Dr. Rinchen, the hospital’s medical superintendent, said:
“The situation was initially overwhelming, as more than 100 patients arrived at once. But thanks to rapid coordination with district authorities, the crisis was managed effectively. There were no fatalities, and most patients have now stabilized.”
Investigation Underway
Nearly 600 people, including cast and crew, reportedly ate the same meal. While most patients were discharged by Monday morning after receiving IV fluids and medication, five remain under close observation. Health officials have collected food samples from the catering service, and laboratory reports are expected soon to determine whether the contamination stemmed from ingredients or improper food handling—both high-risk factors at Leh’s 11,000 ft altitude.
Production Stalled
The makers of Dhurandhar—Jio Studios and B62 Studios—have suspended filming until further notice. Though no official statement has been released, production insiders confirmed that safety reviews and an internal probe are underway.
“Right now, the priority is the health and recovery of the crew,” said a senior production source. “We’re working with local authorities to ensure such an incident never repeats.”
The Film: Ranveer Singh in a Spy Avatar
Directed by Aditya Dhar, National Award-winner for Uri: The Surgical Strike, Dhurandhar marks Ranveer Singh’s entry into an intense spy-action role. The ensemble cast includes Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, and Sara Arjun.
The film’s first look, showcasing Singh in a rugged avatar alongside a haunting reinterpretation of the classic song Jogi with verses by rapper Hanumankind, has already crossed 200 million views across platforms within a week, making it one of the most hyped Bollywood releases of the year. The movie is slated for a December 5, 2025 theatrical release.
Shooting Challenges in Leh
Filming in Ladakh offers spectacular landscapes but also poses logistical and health risks. High-altitude conditions, limited medical infrastructure, and supply-chain hurdles make large-scale productions especially vulnerable. Past Bollywood shoots in the region have faced issues such as altitude sickness, weather disruptions, and now, food safety lapses.
Relatives of affected crew members described scenes of panic but praised the hospital staff for managing the sudden surge of patients. “It was frightening to see so many people fall sick at once, but the doctors handled it with care,” said one family member.
Industry Calls for Stronger Guidelines
The incident has sparked debate in the film industry, with experts urging stricter protocols for catering, hygiene, and emergency preparedness during outdoor shoots. As Bollywood continues to explore exotic, high-risk locations for authenticity, ensuring crew welfare is becoming an urgent concern.
What’s Next
With investigations ongoing and filming paused, fans are hoping for a quick recovery for the crew and a smooth resumption of the shoot. For now, Dhurandhar—already tipped as one of 2025’s biggest blockbusters—remains on hold in the Himalayas.
