‘Dhadak 2’ Pays Powerful Tribute to ‘Pariyerum Perumal’ While Carving Its Own Space in Bollywood
Shazia Iqbal’s Dhadak 2 starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri, currently running in theatres, has stirred significant conversation for all the right reasons. Unlike its predecessor Dhadak (2018), which was a glossy retelling of the Marathi blockbuster Sairat, this second installment takes a bold and grounded approach. Inspired by the critically acclaimed 2018 Tamil film Pariyerum Perumal, Dhadak 2 does more than just recreate—it reimagines. It retains the soul of the original while bringing a fresh and powerful voice that resonates with pan-Indian audiences. What sets this film apart is its unwavering focus on social realism and its courage to delve deep into the realities of caste discrimination.
In Dhadak 2, Siddhant Chaturvedi delivers what can easily be termed his career-best performance as Neelesh, a Dalit law student whose aspirations for dignity and equality collide with a harsh, caste-ridden society. His romance with Vidhi, played by Triptii Dimri, a privileged upper-caste girl, is not just a love story—it is the starting point of a larger, more significant struggle. This film is not about winning love; it is about demanding respect and the right to dream. Chaturvedi’s portrayal is marked by silence that screams louder than words. His emotional restraint, especially in the climax where he tells Vidhi’s father, “I wanted to fly, but you took away my sky,” leaves a haunting impact.
Triptii Dimri’s Vidhi is not a passive romantic lead. She is outspoken, educated, and believes herself to be liberal. Yet, the film intelligently reveals the performative nature of her progressiveness. Her idea of caste awareness stops at acceptance, failing to comprehend the deep-seated structural oppression her partner faces. This complexity adds depth to her character and shows how even the well-meaning can remain unaware of their own privilege.
While Dhadak 2 introduces a more polished visual aesthetic reminiscent of Dharma Productions—with law college campuses and sleek cinematography—it doesn’t allow itself to be reduced to just another Bollywood romance. Every romantic or light-hearted moment is intentionally disrupted by the brutal realities of caste violence. A soulful melody is cut short when a caste vigilante enters the frame. A festive wedding is quickly followed by scenes of harrowing brutality. The film’s structure ensures that the audience never forgets the central theme: systemic discrimination in modern India.
The film’s music, though present, does not manage to leave a lasting impression like the original Tamil film’s haunting score. The songs serve a purpose within the narrative, but none rise to the iconic status of Pariyerum Perumal’s emotionally resonant soundtrack or even Dhadak’s viral hit Zingat. However, this minor shortcoming doesn’t overshadow the film’s emotional and political heft.
What truly elevates Dhadak 2 is its supporting cast. Saurabh Sachdeva brings chilling realism to the role of a caste-based serial killer, becoming the embodiment of the hatred and violence that Dalit communities face. Vipin Sharma, in a brief but powerful role as Neelesh’s father, delivers a deeply moving performance. Perhaps the most thought-provoking character is the Dalit student leader played by Priyank Tiwari. His role, inspired by real-life activists like Rohith Vemula and Umar Khalid, serves as the moral compass of the film. In a particularly standout moment, he breaks the fourth wall during a monologue, turning the film into a mirror reflecting the ugly truths of Indian society.
Dhadak 2 is more than just a film—it is a statement. It dares to talk about caste in a cinematic landscape that often avoids the topic. It strips away the romanticism and forces audiences to confront uncomfortable truths. Shazia Iqbal, known for her sharp storytelling in the 2019 short film Bebaak, uses her directorial debut in feature-length cinema to challenge, educate, and provoke.
For viewers tired of formulaic Bollywood romances and seeking films with substance, Dhadak 2 is a must-watch. It honours the legacy of Pariyerum Perumal without merely imitating it, and in doing so, it sets a new benchmark for socially conscious cinema in mainstream Bollywood. This is a film that doesn’t just entertain—it awakens. For video news and detailed discussions on this and more, visit our YouTube channel THE OLIGO.
