While I don't have direct quotes from Ishaan Khatter regarding Dhadak 2, I can provide an article summarizing the film's reception and details.
Dhadak 2, starring Triptii Dimri and Siddhant Chaturvedi, has arrived in theaters as of August 1, 2025, and is considered a spiritual sequel to the 2018 film Dhadak starring Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter. Directed by Shazia Iqbal, this film tackles a gritty love story set against the backdrop of caste-based discrimination in contemporary India.
The film distinguishes itself with a rustic and cultural setting, a departure from typical Bollywood glamour. Dhadak 2 delves into caste-based discrimination and social stratification more boldly than its predecessor. The story is set in a fictionalized Bhopal and revolves around Neelesh Ahirwar (Siddhant Chaturvedi), a law student from a marginalized community, and Vidhi Bhardwaj (Triptii Dimri), an upper-caste classmate. The film explores the characters' inner struggles with caste biases amidst student politics, primarily within a law college. Neelesh is portrayed as acutely aware of his social standing, facing humiliation and discrimination due to his caste. Vidhi, raised by a liberal father, becomes drawn to Neelesh, leading to a love story complicated by caste politics and injustice.
Many viewers have lauded the performances of Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri. Chaturvedi's portrayal of Neelesh is considered a layered performance, capturing the character's helplessness and eventual defiance. Dimri's performance is also being called a new high point in her career.
Some critics have pointed out flaws in the execution, noting that while the film attempts to address a long-ignored subject in Bollywood, the rawness is glossed over by overexplained messaging. Others felt the movie was bold, brave, and breathtaking. Some praise the film's bravery in storytelling and honest performances, with everything landing well, including the performances, dialogues, emotional depth, anger against retaliation, and the messaging.
Commercially, Dhadak 2 has had a decent start, earning ₹3.5 crore on its opening day and ₹3.75 crore on its second day, bringing the total to ₹7.25 crore. Despite facing competition from other films, it has shown an upward trend and is expected to continue growing.