Dhadak 2: Cast, Story, OTT Release & Box Office Update

Releasing in theatres on  August 1, 2025, ‘Dhadak 2’ marks the directorial debut of Shazia Iqbal, expanding on the socially pertinent theme of the first film in her adaptation. In the film, Bollywood stars Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri take the lead as a young couple. The film’s narrative centers on the complex and multifaceted social evil of casteism, as explored through the experiences of two young lovers. 

While the original Dhadak (2018) is primarily a romantic drama, this installment shifts the focus to social issues while still retaining a degree of emotional warmth. 

What is Dhadak 2 About? 

Dhadak 2 follows the story of Neelesh, a Dalit law student played by Siddhant Chaturvedi, and Vidhi, an upper caste girl played by Triptii Dimri. The two cross paths in a small town college, where their friendship progresses into romance. However, the harsh social conflict stemming from their differing caste backgrounds escalates into a violent conflict, ultimately forcing the couple to fight for their love and values. 

Central Themes:

• Caste inequality and hierarchical discrimination
• Romantic relationships in an inter-caste context and the resulting societal chaos 
• Student activism and the evolving self 
• The conflict between the old and the new

 

 

 

 

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Cast and Characters 

The role of Neelesh is played by Siddhant Chaturvedi, who imbues the character with a compassion that is balanced by resolve. He depicts the emotional reflection of the social injustice with an element of defiance.

Triptii Dimri interprets Vidhi, a role which situates her as a young woman grappling with the tensions between her values and those of her family. Critics have noted her performance to be one of her best to date.  

Deeksha Joshi and other supporting cast members further round out the story.  

Reviews and First Impressions  

Dhadak 2 seems to be well received by critics and the audience alike, with many praising the film for dealing with a serious subject matter and presenting it in a relatable emotionally charged narrative.  

Praised for:  

• Honest depiction of issues related to the caste system  
• Strong and believable acting  
• Grounded and realistic narrative  

Criticized for:  

• First half of the film is a bit of a drag  
• The music is less memorable compared to the first Dhadak  

Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz  

Along with the formal reviews, Dhadak 2 has received a great deal of attention on social media as well. Users have taken to posting their thoughts on the film on X and Instagram, with the common sentiment among viewers describing it as bold, relevant, and deeply moving.  

BOLD..BRAVE...BREATHTAKING – DHADAK 2.
RATING-⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 1/2
Some stories touch your Heart, Others Hit your Mind — #Dhadak2 does both...Caste isn't absent in cities, it just hides behind a moral mask -and this film rips that mask off with brutal honesty...#Dhadak2 #dharmamovies pic.twitter.com/ESk2CwGqER

— Neetu Singh (@sneetu789) July 31, 2025

Audience highlights:  

• Triptii Dimri’s performance in the film is being highlighted as one of the best of her career thus far.  
• Praising Siddhant Chaturvedi, many noted the depth in his performance portraying Neelesh.  
• A significant number of viewers also described the film as "raw and thought provoking" for its depiction of caste-based oppression.
• Although some attendees expressed concern about the slow pace of the starting scenes in the movie, the majority came to a consensus that the second half contained a profound emotional payoff.  

Younger audiences, as well as those actively seeking socially responsible films, have appreciated the film’s tone, and the handling of caste issues, as it is relatable to them.  

#TriptiiDimri doesn’t just act in this film, she embodies Vidhi, Graceful, grounded, and quietly searing#Dhadak2 is her best work yet. pic.twitter.com/U3regYmj08

— Srabanti Chakrabarti (@srabantic) July 31, 2025

Box Office Performance  

The film’s estimated first day earnings of ₹2.5 to ₹3 crore placed it among the lower echelon of Bollywood box office opens. In contrast to the usual Sunday releases of Bollywood films, Dhadak 2 faced competition from other films like Son of Sardaar 2 and Saiyaara. Dhadak 2’s limited theatrical release also stifled growth.  

Nonetheless, the film is likely to experience an increase in box office earnings over the coming days, particularly among metropolitan audiences and the youth because of the film’s relatable content and themes.  

Dhadak 2’s OTT Release Plan  

Despite the film's recent theatrical release, there is a certain degree of anticipation around its streaming release.  

OTT Release Details (Predicted):  

• Platform: Likely to stream on Netflix (not officially confirmed)  
• Expected Release Window:  Late September to early October 2025  

The film is expected to extend its reach to a more diverse audience after its digital release, especially those who lean towards socially responsible films.

How Does Dhadak 2 Differ From The First Film?  

Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter were in the original Dhadak, a film about what felt like a simple romance. But Dhadak 2 takes a different approach, with a more mature and serious plot. It is clear that the sequel places greater importance on its critique of society as compared to the first film. The shift in tone is quite evident.  

Key Differences:

• Focus on caste and systemic injustice  
• Grounded and more subtle performances  
• Reduced commercial appeal in favor of a more socially relevant message  

This reflects a growing pattern in Bollywood of more meaningful and socially relevant storytelling.

Dhadak 2 Movie Overview

Final Thoughts

Dhadak 2 isn’t your usual love story — it’s a gutsy movie that unabashedly mocks deep-seated societal norms and delivers soul-shattering acting. Dense with earthy narrative and a visionary message, the film is a quantum leap for hindi films in addressing real world angst. But if you’re seeing it for the acting or the story or the zeitgeist, Dhadak 2 sparks a blaze that radiates and gleams through conversations beyond the silver screen.

Source(Image / Thumbnail): timesofindia