‘Vadh 2’ Review: A Powerful Script, Strong Direction, and Stellar Performances

By Shantiswaroop Tripathi

• Rating: 4  Stars
• Producers: Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg for Luv Films
• Writers: Jaspal Singh Sandhu and Neha Shitole
• Director: Jaspal Singh Sandhu
• Cast: Sanjay Mishra, Neena Gupta, Kumud Mishra, Amit K. Singh, Yogita Bihani, Akshay Dogra, Shilpa Shukla, and others
• Duration: 2 hours 11 minutes

Luv Films and Jaspal Singh Sandhu first came together in 2022 with the film Vadh, which was based on a story from the popular magazine Manohar Kahaniyan. Now, they return with its sequel, Vadh 2. Apart from Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta, most of the supporting cast has changed. More importantly, this story has no direct connection with the first film. While Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta played husband and wife in Vadh, they are not a couple in this film—though they do end up living together in the climax.

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As in the first film, it is Neena Gupta’s character who ultimately commits the “vadh” (slaying) of the criminal. Once again, themes such as poverty, love, lust, revenge, and silence are deeply embedded in the narrative. The film draws inspiration from literature and mythology, where the destruction of necessary evil is often considered inevitable. Thanks to its compelling story, tight screenplay, and confident direction, the film keeps the audience engaged throughout. Just when viewers think they know what will happen next, the film takes an unexpected turn. Like its predecessor, the filmmakers once again describe the killing of the criminal in self-defense not as “murder” but as “vadh.”

Story

Years ago, Manju Devi (Neena Gupta) was sentenced to 28 years in prison for the murder of a relative and her lover—a crime she never committed. The real murderer goes on to become a senior police officer. As Manju Devi is about to be released after serving her sentence, the same man, Prakash Singh (Kumud Mishra), arrives at Shivpuri Jail in Madhya Pradesh as its new jailor.

Over the years, Manju Devi has developed an emotional bond with Shambhunath Mishra (Sanjay Mishra), a dedicated and experienced officer at Shivpuri Jail. The two find comfort in secret conversations across the prison wall, often helped by a compassionate female officer, Nafisa (Nidhi Diwan), who facilitates their late-night meetings.

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Shambhunath had taken loans to fund his ungrateful son’s education abroad and continues to repay them on his modest salary, even though his NRI son has cut off all ties with him. Manju is also fond of Naina Kumari (Yogita Bihani), a young inmate falsely accused of theft.
Peace in Shivpuri Jail is shattered when Keshav (Akshay Dogra), the younger brother of a powerful local politician, is brought to prison. Inside the jail, Keshav repeatedly exploits female inmates, yet no action is taken against him. He also holds influence over female warden Rajni (Shilpa Shukla) and casts a predatory eye on Naina, who has already been framed by her seniors. At one point, Keshav even asks Rajni to “arrange” Naina for a night.
One night, jailor Prakash Singh brutally beats Keshav, and the same night, Keshav mysteriously disappears from the prison. His disappearance triggers an investigation by young officer Atit Singh (Amit K. Singh). Events unfold rapidly, and when the truth finally emerges, it leaves audiences stunned, wondering if such a turn of events was even possible.

Review

The film’s strong screenplay and assured direction keep viewers thoroughly engaged. The filmmaker raises questions about human values while leaving no room for moral ambiguity till the very end. Once again, the ideology of “vadh” is openly questioned, highlighted by Atit Singh’s dialogue: “The law of the land does not consider killing as vadh.”
Although the film starts at a slow pace, it soon gains momentum and grips the audience. Despite being largely engaging, the intensity slightly dips after the interval, but Vadh 2 regains its rhythm and holds your attention till the climax. Shambhunath’s perspective on justice—seen from a different lens—will resonate deeply with the powerless and unsettle the powerful.

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One of the most beautiful aspects of Vadh 2 is the stunning visual presentation by director Jaspal Sandhu and cinematographer Sapan Narula. Grandeur does not always mean palaces or modern buildings; the way Shivpuri Jail and its inmates are portrayed is truly mesmerizing. Sandhu skillfully weaves a compelling mix of romance, distorted moral values, police procedures, and the strengths and flaws of human relationships. The climax is outstanding.

Acting

Sanjay Mishra delivers a powerful performance as Shambhunath Mishra. Unlike his debt-ridden character in the first film, his portrayal here is strikingly different. With white hair, a clean-shaven face, and a disheveled appearance, he may initially seem eccentric or unserious—but he ultimately emerges as the real authority of Shivpuri after the jailor. His first interaction with Atit Singh is exceptional, and his initial scene with Manju is simply brilliant.

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Neena Gupta is equally impressive as Manju Devi, and her chemistry with Sanjay Mishra is exceptional. Kumud Mishra fully embodies the role of jailor Prakash Singh. Nadeem Khan shines as a morally ambiguous police officer; after playing a corrupt cook in Dhurandhar, this is a longer and stronger role for him. Amit K. Singh leaves a solid impression as investigating officer Atit Singh. Yogita Bihani, known for The Kerala Story, makes a mark even in her brief role as Naina.

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