Dhadak 2 is a 2025 Indian Hindi-language romantic drama directed by Shazia Iqbal and produced by Dharma Productions, Zee Studios, and Cloud 9 Pictures. The film is a spiritual sequel to the 2018 film Dhadak, but unlike its predecessor, which leaned more toward a conventional love story, Dhadak 2 takes a bolder path. It is a remake of the critically acclaimed Tamil film Pariyerum Perumal (2018), and carries forward the theme of love across caste lines, highlighting the harsh social realities that come with it.
The lead roles are played by Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri, both of whom deliver emotionally rich performances that form the emotional core of the movie. Dhadak 2 is not just a romance; it’s a story about identity, oppression, resilience, and the heavy price that often comes with crossing social boundaries in India.
The story follows Neelesh “Nil” Ahirwar (played by Siddhant Chaturvedi), a young law student who comes from a historically marginalized, lower-caste background. Thanks to India’s caste-based quota system, he earns a place at a prestigious law college. However, once he arrives, Neelesh quickly learns that even merit can’t protect him from the subtle and overt discriminations rooted in caste. To avoid humiliation, he tries to hide his caste identity from peers and professors alike.
At college, he meets Vidhi Bharadwaj (Triptii Dimri), a confident and kind student from a privileged, upper-caste family. They begin as classmates but gradually develop a close bond that turns into love. Their growing relationship is heartfelt, but it is set against a society still divided by caste, class, and inherited privilege.Trouble arises when Vidhi’s family discovers their relationship. They invite Neelesh to her sister’s wedding, but what seems like a kind gesture turns into a humiliating experience. Neelesh is treated with hostility, beaten by Vidhi’s relatives, and made to feel unworthy simply because of his caste.
Crushed and embarrassed, Neelesh distances himself from Vidhi. But their connection proves too strong to break. In time, they find their way back to each other, even though societal pressure and prejudice continue to challenge them.
Rating: 4/5
The film also features a heartbreaking subplot involving their college friend Shekhar, who takes his own life, unable to cope with the pressures and discrimination he faces. His suicide adds another layer to the film’s exploration of mental health and systemic injustice.
In the climax, after painful confrontations and violent attempts to end the relationship, some members of Vidhi’s family, including her aggressive cousin Ronnie, start to soften their stance. The death of Shankar, a violent enforcer of caste-based hatred, marks a turning point. Neelesh survives the trauma, and Vidhi’s family reluctantly gives their blessing to the couple.
Though the ending is not a complete fairytale, it offers a small victory: love endures, even in the face of deep-rooted hatred and social obstacles.
- Siddhant Chaturvedi as Neelesh Ahirwar
- Triptii Dimri as Vidhi Bharadwaj
Both actors carry the film with intensity, emotion, and authenticity, turning a socially charged narrative into a deeply personal story.
One of the strongest aspects of Dhadak 2 is the stellar performance of its lead actors. Siddhant Chaturvedi delivers what may be his career-best performance. His portrayal of Neelesh is raw, vulnerable, and quietly powerful. He captures the silent pain of discrimination, the rage held back, and the emotional toll of being marginalized.
Triptii Dimri is equally compelling. She brings grace and emotional depth to her role as Vidhi, portraying a young woman who begins to see the harsh realities of the world around her. Her chemistry with Siddhant is natural and touching, creating moments that feel real and moving.
The film’s direction and cinematography are also worth praising. Director Shazia Iqbal uses visuals not just for beauty, but to enhance emotional storytelling. The film’s use of light, color, and camera angles adds mood and depth to key scenes, especially during moments of confrontation or heartbreak.
The script doesn’t shy away from difficult topics. It presents the cruelty of caste-based discrimination in a straightforward, unfiltered way. Unlike many Bollywood films that tend to soften social issues for mass appeal, Dhadak 2 faces them head-on. The second half, in particular, is intense, heartbreaking, and eye-opening.
Another strength is how the film manages to weave a personal love story into a larger narrative about systemic injustice. It makes viewers reflect on the privilege many take for granted, and the hidden struggles of those constantly judged for their identity.
The film attempts to juggle multiple themes, caste, class, patriarchy, mental health, which sometimes makes the narrative feel heavy. For some viewers, especially those looking for a lighter romantic drama, the film may feel emotionally exhausting.
The first half of the movie is slower in pace, focusing on establishing characters and relationships. While this helps in building emotional depth, it may test the patience of viewers who expect quicker plot development.
Some critics have also pointed out that while the film attempts to show caste issues honestly, it could have included more perspectives from Neelesh’s own community to give a fuller picture of their struggles and resilience.
Dhadak 2 is a significant film in contemporary Hindi cinema. It balances a deeply emotional love story with a strong social message. With remarkable performances, compelling direction, and courageous storytelling, it manages to touch hearts while raising important questions. It’s not just a movie about romance, it’s about identity, courage, and the high price of dignity in a divided society. While it may not be an easy watch for everyone, Dhadak 2 is certainly a meaningful one.
