Exclusive Interview with Triptii Dimri and Siddhant Chaturvedi on ‘Dhadak 2’: “It’s not just about romance, it’s about a perspective”

Hindi cinema is now opening its doors to new faces, and audiences are embracing fresh experiments. In this wave comes producer Karan Johar’s much-anticipated film ‘Dhadak 2’, bringing Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri together on screen for the first time. The film is not just a love story, but also delves deep into social issues. Directed by Shazia Iqbal, ‘Dhadak 2’ is set to release in theatres on August 1, 2025. Ahead of the release, Triptii and Siddhant spoke with Bollywood Hungama. Here’s what they had to say...

• When you first read the script or heard the narration of ‘Dhadak 2’, what was your initial reaction? Did you instantly decide to be part of it?

Siddhant: When I heard the script for the first time, it shook me to my core. It’s not just a romantic film – there’s so much more to say. I immediately called Karan and said, “I’m doing this film.”

Triptii: When I read the script, I felt it came straight from the heart. When director Shazia narrated it to me, there was honesty in her voice – no pretension.

• The film is titled ‘Dhadak 2’. Is it a direct sequel to the first Dhadak, or more of a ‘spiritual sequel’ connected thematically rather than in storyline?

Siddhant: No, ‘Dhadak 2’ is not a direct sequel to the first film. It’s what we call a spiritual sequel – the soul and core themes like love, social discrimination, and class struggle are similar, but the story, characters, and incidents are entirely different. It stands on its own.

Triptii: Siddhant explained it perfectly. ‘Dhadak 2’ also addresses a serious social issue that still exists in our society. But the story is entirely new – every character, every situation, every struggle is different. We didn’t approach it as a sequel, but with a fresh perspective and intention.

• How much has the atmosphere changed in the film industry for outsiders? Do you think there are more opportunities now?

Triptii: Earlier when I used to go for auditions, people would say there’s no work. Today, I see those same people working in web shows and films. New faces are getting chances, and I credit the audience for that.

Siddhant: Casting directors are actively looking for new talent now. The demand for content has grown so much that we need actors who are hungry and fully committed.

• Was there any fear or hesitation about how the sensitive social issue in the film would be handled?

Triptii: Yes, that question definitely came to mind. The issue the film tackles is delicate. But after the first narration from Shazia, I knew she was emotionally connected to the story. She wasn’t just making a film – she was approaching every character with empathy. Her clarity and preparation gave me confidence that this film would be made with honesty and truth.

Siddhant: That was very important to me too. The moment I heard the narration, I felt there was something special about it. I immediately called Karan Johar and said I want to do this film. It takes a stand, it presents a viewpoint. Yes, it’s a remake, but Shazia has shaped it in her own way, and that’s what touched me the most.

• You’ve both worked in major films before. Did fame come instantly or gradually?

Siddhant: People might think I became famous overnight with Gully Boy, but the journey was long. I did theatre, played small roles, gave audition after audition, faced many rejections. All of that shaped me as an actor. When Gully Boy happened, I gave it everything. That one role gave me the recognition I had worked years for.

Triptii: Animal definitely gave me a new identity, but the journey before that was filled with ups and downs. I started in theatre, did small roles, got rejected often. Every time I lost a role, I questioned whether I was on the right path. But deep down I believed that someday my work would be noticed. When Animal released, I felt like my voice was finally being heard. But I know this is just the beginning – I have a lot more to learn and achieve.

• How did you two prepare for your on-screen chemistry?

Siddhant: Our director Shazia organized workshops for everyone – not just actors, even crew members participated. It created a comfort zone.
Triptii: In the beginning, we mostly played games – like college friends. That bond shows on screen too.

• Was there a particular scene that emotionally affected you deeply?

Siddhant: Some scenes were so intense that before shooting, I just wanted to be alone for a while.
Triptii: Sometimes Shazia would say, “Let’s go for a walk” – and during that time, she’d help us understand the emotional depth of a scene. That’s why even the heavy scenes didn’t feel burdensome. But what those scenes are – you’ll have to watch the film to find out!

• You both don’t come from a film background, yet you’re featured on the poster of such a big film. Do you think times have changed?

Triptii: Earlier, when I went for auditions, people would say, “There’s no work.” But now I see those same people working in web shows and films. The industry has changed. New faces are being welcomed, and the credit goes to audiences who are demanding that change.

Siddhant: Some of my college friends are now working in casting. Earlier, people only looked for familiar faces or those with industry backgrounds. Now they’re actively looking for new talent. Today, content matters more than stardom – audiences want real stories and real performers. This is the best time for outsiders like us.

• What upcoming projects are you both working on?

Triptii: I recently worked on Vishal Bhardwaj’s Arjun Ustra. After that, I’m doing Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film Spirit.
Siddhant: I have two films in the pipeline.

• What are your hopes from Dhadak 2?

Triptii: If after watching this film, even a few people reflect on the idea that love is above caste, class, or identity – then our work is done.
Siddhant: We’re not here to preach, we just want to hold up a mirror.

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