Director Rajkumar Gupta, known for his gripping storytelling
and realistic themes, is all set to return with "Raid 2", the
sequel to his 2018 blockbuster Raid. While sequels are often seen as
safer investments in the film industry, Gupta firmly dismisses the idea,
calling it a “myth” and emphasizing that only strong stories can justify a
sequel.
“It’s a myth that sequels or franchise films are a safe
bet,” Gupta said in a recent interview. “Unless there is a solid story that
demands continuation, there’s no point making a sequel. I don’t believe in
taking the easy route.”
"Raid 2", starring Ajay Devgn once again in
the role of IRS officer Amay Patnaik, draws inspiration from real-life income
tax raids, much like its predecessor. Gupta revealed that it took nearly four
years to conceptualize and finalize a story that would do justice to the
original. “It took time because we wanted to maintain the authenticity and
impact the first film had. The sequel also focuses on true incidents.”
Ajay Devgn’s return to the role brings a familiar strength
to the project, and Gupta praised the actor for his commitment. “Ajay sir is a
brilliant actor. We didn’t have to guide him much. Our focus was on getting the
script and character arcs right. He naturally fits the role,” said the
director.
Interestingly, while Devgn reprises his role, the leading
lady has changed. In Raid, Ileana D’Cruz played Patnaik’s wife. In the
sequel, Vaani Kapoor steps in as the new female lead. Addressing the change,
Gupta said, “It’s seven years later in the story. These things happen all the
time in cinema. Ileana was fantastic in Raid, and she’ll always be part
of the Raid family. But this time, the narrative required a different
actor, and Vaani fit the role perfectly. There's no negativity in this change.”
The film also features Riteish Deshmukh in a pivotal role as
the antagonist. Gupta stressed the importance of casting the right villain.
“The villain’s role is as important as the hero’s. His entry, journey, and
impact need to be powerful. Once the script was locked, we knew Riteish was the
right choice. He’s versatile, and I’ve admired his work for a long time.”
"Raid 2" is produced by Bhushan Kumar,
Krishan Kumar, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Abhishek Pathak under the banners of
T-Series and Panorama Studios. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release
on May 1, 2025.
Gupta also reflected on projects that didn’t materialize,
including a biopic on Indian spy Ravindra Kaushik (also known as the Black
Tiger), which was once being discussed with Salman Khan, and a film titled Section
84 with Kareena Kapoor Khan. “I had the rights for the Black Tiger story
but did not renew them. I believe every film has its own destiny. If I wasn’t
meant to make it, someone else will.”
With Raid 2, Rajkumar Gupta promises a film that
stays true to its roots—real stories, powerful characters, and impactful
cinema—without relying on the "safety" of sequels.