‘Dhadak 2’ Movie Review: Siddhant Chaturvedi, Triptii Dimri Star in Caste-Conscious Drama That Lacks Emotional Punch

Director Shazia Iqbal’s Dhadak 2 takes a bold step by remaking the critically acclaimed Tamil film Pariyerum Perumal, exploring caste-based discrimination through the lens of young love. With Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri in lead roles, the film attempts to challenge Bollywood norms by tackling themes often left untouched in mainstream Hindi cinema. However, while the intent is noble, the execution falls short of emotional resonance.

The story revolves around two law students, Neelesh (Chaturvedi), a Dalit boy, and Vidhi (Dimri), an upper-caste girl, whose growing intimacy clashes with the harsh realities of caste politics. While the original film was poetic in tone and raw in emotion, Dhadak 2 often appears torn between staying true to its source and suiting the glossier Dharma Productions format. The result is a somewhat sterile version of a deeply human story.

Dhadak 2 Movie Review – When Social Commentary Becomes Mere Dialogue

What sets Dhadak 2 apart is its attempt to blend romance with activism. However, it often feels like a film that tells rather than shows. It includes elements like a Rohith Vemula-inspired subplot, references to the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and classroom monologues on identity and honour, but these feel more like inserted bullet points than lived-in moments.

Triptii Dimri’s portrayal of Vidhi lacks the subtlety required to make her awakening believable. Her character is designed to reflect innocence, yet her ignorance feels overstated and eventually irritating. The law college setting lacks authenticity, resembling a glossy version of real institutions, and fails to channel the political energy such a backdrop could offer.

On the other hand, Siddhant Chaturvedi delivers an honest and layered performance as Neelesh, a student torn between ambition and identity. There’s an especially poignant moment where Neelesh, shaped by generations of untouchability, hesitates to embrace Vidhi — a scene loaded with emotional complexity. Unfortunately, such moments are rare.

Saurabh Sachdeva, playing the role of a casteist vigilante, adds intensity and menace, representing the violent enforcers of social order who refuse to fade with time. Harish Khanna, as Vidhi’s lawyer father, shows flashes of depth but is underutilized. Despite their potential, the supporting cast doesn’t get enough space to evolve.

While the second half picks up momentum, it still struggles to unify its themes. The climax tries to deliver catharsis but feels too formulaic to truly move the audience.

A Social Film That Stands Tall in Intent, but Not in Execution

Dhadak 2 is commendable for its intent and subject choice. In an industry hesitant to address caste directly, especially in a mainstream romantic setting, this film is a notable step forward. Yet, the lack of emotional weight and the over-explaining of social issues reduce its effectiveness.

Shazia Iqbal’s attempt deserves recognition, but the storytelling leaves too much untapped. Instead of letting the characters’ journeys and silences speak, the film spells out its message too loudly — and in doing so, loses some of its power.

Dhadak 2 raises its voice, but its heart doesn’t echo loudly enough.

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