The Indian film industry has a rich tradition of drawing inspiration from regional cinema, adapting compelling narratives to reach a broader audience. One such endeavor is “Dhadak 2,” an upcoming Hindi-language romantic drama that serves as a spiritual sequel to the 2018 film “Dhadak.” This new installment is a remake of the critically acclaimed Tamil film “Pariyerum Perumal” (2018), directed by Mari Selvaraj. “Dhadak 2” is helmed by Shazia Iqbal and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, Zee Studios, and Cloud 9 Pictures. The film features Triptii Dimri and Siddhant Chaturvedi in the lead roles.
The Legacy of “Dhadak” and Its Marathi Roots
The original “Dhadak,” released in 2018, was a Hindi adaptation of the Marathi blockbuster “Sairat” (2016), directed by Nagraj Manjule. “Sairat” garnered widespread acclaim for its raw portrayal of inter-caste romance set against the backdrop of rural Maharashtra. However, “Dhadak,” while commercially successful, faced criticism for diluting the intense socio-political themes of “Sairat,” opting for a more sanitized narrative.
“Pariyerum Perumal”: A Cinematic Gem
“Pariyerum Perumal” is a poignant Tamil film that delves deep into the issues of caste-based discrimination and societal injustices. The story follows a law student from a marginalized community who faces systemic oppression while striving for equality and dignity. The film was lauded for its unflinching portrayal of caste dynamics and received critical acclaim for its storytelling and performances.
The Announcement and Vision for “Dhadak 2”
In May 2024, Karan Johar officially announced “Dhadak 2,” introducing Triptii Dimri and Siddhant Chaturvedi as the protagonists through a musical teaser. Johar expressed his admiration for “Pariyerum Perumal,” stating that he was deeply moved by its narrative during his initial viewing. Acknowledging past criticisms regarding the adaptation of “Sairat,” Johar assured that “Dhadak 2” would remain faithful to the core themes of the original Tamil film, particularly its hard-hitting depiction of caste-based violence.
Casting and Direction
The casting of Triptii Dimri and Siddhant Chaturvedi has generated significant interest. Both actors have been recognized for their versatile performances in previous projects. Dimri’s portrayal in films like “Bulbbul” showcased her ability to embody complex characters, while Chaturvedi gained acclaim for his role in “Gully Boy,” where he played a street rapper navigating socio-economic challenges. Their collaboration in “Dhadak 2” is anticipated to bring depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Director Shazia Iqbal, known for her nuanced storytelling, takes the helm for this project. Her involvement underscores the filmmakers’ commitment to preserving the essence of “Pariyerum Perumal,” ensuring that the film’s socio-political commentary resonates with the Hindi-speaking audience.
Production and Music
Pre-production for “Dhadak 2” commenced in April 2023, with principal photography beginning on February 2, 2025. The film’s music is composed by Shreyas Puranik, with lyrics penned by the duo Siddharth-Garima. Music has always played a pivotal role in Indian cinema, and the soundtrack of “Dhadak 2” is expected to complement its intense narrative.
Addressing Concerns and Commitments
The decision to remake “Pariyerum Perumal” has been met with both anticipation and apprehension. Fans of the original express concerns about the potential dilution of its potent themes. In response, Karan Johar has publicly apologized for any apprehensions and emphasized the team’s dedication to staying true to the source material. He assured audiences that “Dhadak 2” would not shy away from depicting the harsh realities addressed in the original film, aiming to deliver a narrative as impactful and hard-hitting.
The Broader Context of Remakes in Bollywood
Bollywood has a history of remaking regional films, aiming to introduce compelling stories to a wider audience. However, this practice has often sparked debates about cultural appropriation and the potential loss of original narratives’ authenticity. For instance, “Sadak 2,” a sequel to the 1991 film “Sadak,” faced significant backlash upon its release. The film was criticized for its perceived lack of originality and failure to capture the essence of its predecessor, highlighting the challenges filmmakers face when revisiting acclaimed works.
Anticipation and Expectations
As “Dhadak 2” progresses through production, the anticipation surrounding its release continues to build. The film’s success will largely hinge on its ability to authentically portray the socio-political issues central to “Pariyerum Perumal” while resonating with a pan-Indian audience. The casting choices, directorial vision, and commitment from the production team indicate a concerted effort to honor the original’s legacy.
Conclusion
“Dhadak 2” represents a significant endeavor in Bollywood’s ongoing journey to adapt and reinterpret regional narratives. By choosing to remake a film as impactful as “Pariyerum Perumal,” the filmmakers have set a high bar for themselves. If executed with sensitivity and fidelity to the original’s themes, “Dhadak 2” has the potential to spark meaningful conversations about caste dynamics and social justice in India, reaffirming cinema’s role as a mirror to society.
