Quick Read
- ‘Dhadak 2’ tackles casteism and classism through a compelling love story.
- Directed by Shazia Iqbal, the film stars Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri.
- The film is a spiritual sequel to the 2018 Bollywood hit ‘Dhadak.’
- Anurag Kashyap praised it as a return to socially relevant mainstream cinema.
- Despite moderate box office numbers, the film has sparked critical acclaim and social media discussions.
The recently released Bollywood film ‘Dhadak 2,’ directed by debutante Shazia Iqbal, has emerged as a poignant narrative that challenges societal norms and delves into the complexities of caste and class dynamics in India. Released on August 1, 2025, the movie stars Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri in lead roles and serves as a spiritual sequel to the 2018 film ‘Dhadak.’ While the first installment, directed by Shashank Khaitan, was a Hindi adaptation of the Marathi blockbuster ‘Sairat,’ the new film builds on its predecessor by tackling even deeper social issues.
A Story Rooted in Social Relevance
At its core, ‘Dhadak 2’ narrates the love story of Neelesh, a Dalit law student played by Siddhant Chaturvedi, and Vidhi, an upper-caste woman portrayed by Triptii Dimri. Their relationship becomes a battleground for societal prejudices as they face resistance from Vidhi’s conservative family and society at large. According to Hindustan Times, the film is an adaptation of the Tamil movie ‘Pariyerum Perumal,’ but it retains its unique essence by capturing the harsh realities of casteism and classism in India. The film’s ability to bring these issues to the forefront in a mainstream format has been lauded as a brave move by the filmmakers.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, in a heartfelt Instagram post, commended Shazia Iqbal’s direction, calling it “a punch in the gut.” He compared the film to the works of legendary directors like Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy, and Guru Dutt, who were known for their socially relevant storytelling. Kashyap praised the film for “holding a mirror to what India really is outside of the bubble we live in” and highlighted its importance in reviving the tradition of socially conscious mainstream cinema.
Critical Acclaim for Performances
The performances of Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri have been universally praised for their depth and authenticity. Triptii’s portrayal of Vidhi, in particular, has been described as a masterclass in emotional range and intensity. In its review, Firstpost noted that Vidhi’s character embodies “solidarity, sensitivity, and strength” amidst the caste politics depicted in the film. The climactic scenes, where Vidhi confronts her family’s prejudices and societal expectations, have been hailed as some of the most powerful moments in recent Bollywood cinema.
Triptii’s nuanced performance balances vulnerability and resilience, making her character a beacon of hope and progress in a deeply divided society. Siddhant Chaturvedi, on the other hand, delivers a raw and heartbreaking portrayal of a man torn apart by systemic discrimination. Together, their chemistry and individual performances elevate the film’s narrative, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
Box Office Performance and Public Reception
Despite facing stiff competition from other releases like ‘Son of Sardaar 2,’ ‘Dhadak 2’ has managed to carve out its own audience. According to Mashable India, the film earned Rs 3.50 crore on its opening day and Rs 86 lakh on its second day. While these numbers may not be groundbreaking, the movie’s niche appeal and critical acclaim suggest a strong word-of-mouth trajectory over the coming weeks.
The film has also sparked significant discussions on social media, with viewers praising its bold storytelling and thought-provoking themes. Anurag Kashyap’s endorsement has further amplified its visibility, encouraging cinephiles to engage with its narrative. Many have noted that the film’s exploration of caste and class dynamics is a rarity in mainstream Bollywood, making it a significant cultural artifact in contemporary Indian cinema.
A Milestone for Mainstream Cinema
‘Dhadak 2’ is more than just a love story; it is a commentary on the societal constructs that dictate relationships and identities in India. By addressing issues like casteism and classism, the film challenges the audience to confront uncomfortable truths and question long-held beliefs. As Times of India aptly put it, the movie is “a throwback to the golden era of filmmaking” when mainstream cinema was not afraid to tackle social issues head-on.
Shazia Iqbal’s debut as a director has set a high benchmark for socially relevant storytelling in Bollywood. Her ability to weave a compelling narrative that is both entertaining and enlightening underscores the potential of cinema as a tool for social change. Supported by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the film’s production quality and artistic vision further enhance its impact.
As the cinematic world continues to evolve, films like ‘Dhadak 2’ serve as a reminder of the power of storytelling to challenge norms, inspire dialogue, and pave the way for a more inclusive society.