If the original Raid (2018) was a gripping tale of justice and integrity, Raid 2 (2025) not only builds on that foundation but scales up the intensity and stakes, offering a deeply engaging narrative of power, corruption, and redemption. Directed by the meticulous Raj Kumar Gupta, the sequel brings Ajay Devgn back as the fearless IRS officer Amay Patnaik and introduces Riteish Deshmukh and Vaani Kapoor in pivotal roles that add new layers to the franchise.
The Plot: White-Collar Crime, Black Money & One Honest Man
Set seven years after the events of the first film, Raid 2 follows Amay Patnaik, now a battle-hardened officer who has undertaken 74 transfers and just as many raids. His next assignment takes him to Bhoj, Rajasthan — a fictional but convincingly depicted town that becomes the epicenter of a high-stakes confrontation. His target: Dada Manohar Bhai (played with nuance by Riteish Deshmukh), a corrupt politician shielded by political influence and public perception.
Amay’s 75th raid is not only a test of his skill but also a deeply personal battle against a system that often protects the guilty. The narrative explores the layered consequences of exposing powerful individuals — from suspension and political pressure to attempts on his life. What elevates the film is the subplot involving Amay's wife, Malini (Vaani Kapoor), whose emotional appeal to Dada's mother becomes the turning point in the story.
This film isn't just about raids and recovery of black money — it’s about moral reckoning. The emotional and psychological confrontations add a dimension of human drama that many thrillers fail to explore.
Performances: A Solid Cast that Shines
Ajay Devgn reprises his role with characteristic stoicism and grit. His portrayal of Amay Patnaik is now more weathered and intense, but still deeply rooted in the ethics that made the first film resonate with audiences. Riteish Deshmukh is a revelation — his portrayal of Dada Manohar Bhai is layered, portraying both menace and vulnerability. Vaani Kapoor adds emotional depth and grace, replacing Ileana D’Cruz as Malini with a fresh take on the character.
Special mentions go to Supriya Pathak, who brings gravitas to the role of Dada’s mother, and Saurabh Shukla, who as Rameshwar Singh a.k.a. “Tauji,” leaves a lasting impression in the final scenes, hinting at a third installment.
Direction, Cinematography & Screenplay
Director Raj Kumar Gupta keeps the tension tight throughout the film. The screenplay is crisp and does not stray from the central theme of justice versus power. The cinematography by Amit Trivedi (also the background score composer) effectively captures the dusty heat of Rajasthan, the chaos of political rallies, and the high-adrenaline office raids.
What makes the direction standout is the handling of real-life inspired events with cinematic flair, without compromising on realism. There is a sense of urgency in every frame, and yet the film never loses its emotional anchor.
Music & Special Appearances
The soundtrack, featuring compositions by Yo Yo Honey Singh, Amit Trivedi, Rochak Kohli, Sachet–Parampara, and White Noise Collectives, adds a punch to the narrative. “Nasha” and “Kamle” offer melodious relief, while “Money Money,” with its cameo appearances by Honey Singh and Jacqueline Fernandez, serves as a peppy break in an otherwise serious film. Tamannaah Bhatia's appearance in “Nasha” is a visual delight, thanks to Vijay Ganguly's energetic choreography.
Box Office Performance
Raid 2 stormed into theaters on 1st May 2025 and capitalized on the Labour Day and Maharashtra Day holiday weekend. It opened with an impressive ₹19.71 crore in India and a global tally of ₹27 crore on Day 1. By the third week, it had comfortably crossed the ₹200 crore mark, becoming the second highest-grossing Hindi film of the year. This commercial success is a testament to the franchise's popularity and audience trust.
A Must-Watch for Thriller Lovers and Law & Order Enthusiasts
Despite receiving mixed reviews initially, Raid 2 has carved its own identity as a solid sequel with heart and purpose. The narrative is tight, performances compelling, and direction razor-sharp. It not only entertains but also ignites conversations around justice, political corruption, and the resilience of one honest man.
For the fans of the first film, Raid 2 is a satisfying continuation, and for new viewers, it serves as a powerful standalone thriller.
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