After a lengthy anticipation, Raid 2—the highly awaited follow-up to the 2018 hit Raid—finally premiered in theaters on May 1, 2025.
Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta and featuring a remarkable cast led by Ajay Devgn, the film delves deeper into the realm of white-collar offenses and income tax operations.
Merging suspense, drama, and action into a captivating story that strikes a chord with Indian audiences.
A Sequel Grounded in Authenticity
Raid 2 carries forward the legacy of its predecessor, broadening the narrative surrounding the principled IRS officer Amay Patnaik, portrayed once again with steadfast intensity by Ajay Devgn.
This time, Officer Patnaik confronts his most formidable challenge—a complex assignment aimed at dismantling the criminal empire of Dada Manohar Bhai, brought to life with unexpected depth and menace by Riteish Deshmukh.
Drawing inspiration from real income tax operations, the film maintains its tradition of being based on true events.
While the first installment focused on a singular, monumental raid, Raid 2 offers a wider perspective—an intricately crafted story of political connections, financial deceit, and systemic corruption.
Behind the Scenes: An Experienced Creative Team
The film greatly benefits from the collaboration between directing and writing.
Under the direction of Raj Kumar Gupta, who also co-wrote the script alongside Ritesh Shah, Jaideep Yadav, and Karan Vyas, Raid 2 is distinguished by its intelligent screenplay and sharp dialogues.
The storytelling unfolds at a measured pace, with suspense gradually escalating until it culminates in a thrilling climax.
Sudhir K. Chaudhary’s cinematography captures the urgency of the plot, while Sandeep Francis’s editing keeps the film’s 138-minute duration concise and engaging without unnecessary filler.
The production is polished, thanks to the cooperation between T-Series Films and Panorama Studios, with distribution handled by Panorama Studios and PVR Inox Pictures.
Cast and Performances
Ajay Devgn once more demonstrates his suitability for intense characters grounded in integrity.
His performance as IRS officer Amay Patnaik is characterized by restraint and seriousness.
He embodies a man driven not by vengeance but by a steadfast devotion to his duty.
His commanding presence is particularly evident in scenes where his character faces political pressures and ethical quandaries.
Riteish Deshmukh, typically recognized for his comedic performances, catches viewers off guard with his nuanced portrayal of the villain, Dada Manohar Bhai.
With a composed exterior and a shrewd intellect, he embodies the archetype of the modern criminal—sophisticated, protected by influence, and merciless when cornered.
Vaani Kapoor plays a significant role in the story, lending both emotional depth and balance to the narrative.
Although her screen time is limited compared to the male leads, she significantly contributes to the development of the plot.
Music and Background Score
The soundtrack of Raid 2 combines soulful tunes with a powerful background score.
Composed by Amit Trivedi, the film’s score enhances the tension during critical moments.
The songs—crafted by Yo Yo Honey Singh, Amit Trivedi, Rochak Kohli, Sachet–Parampara, and White Noise Collectives—appeal to a diverse audience.
From uplifting themes to dramatic undertones, the music enriches the film’s emotional dimension.
None of the songs linger longer than necessary or disrupt the flow of the story, with their placement being deliberate, often providing a reflective pause or heightening tension before the next major revelation.
Story and Themes
Central to Raid 2 is a narrative centered on justice, duty, and systemic accountability.
Amay Patnaik embarks on his 75th raid, but this one differs from all the others.
His target, Dada Manohar Bhai, is deeply embedded in the nation’s political and industrial landscape, transforming the raid from a mere bureaucratic obligation into a profound personal and professional confrontation.
The movie delves into the complex relationship between financial crimes, political immunity, media manipulation, and bureaucratic hurdles.
It also sheds light on the isolation and risks faced by officers who choose to confront the influential.
Nonetheless, the film consistently emphasizes its main character’s unwavering belief that no one is untouchable by the law.
Cinematic Strengths
Raid 2 excels due to its concise screenplay, compelling performances, and significant themes.
The climactic raid sequence in a high-end hotel is a masterclass in building suspense.
The dialogue is incisive, and the confrontations between Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh stand out as some of the film’s best moments.
Incorporating elements inspired by real-life events and showcasing procedural accuracy in the execution of raids lend authenticity to the film.
It steers clear of excessive action and instead focuses on well-researched narratives.
Room for Improvement
Although Raid 2 succeeds in various aspects, it does encounter some shortcomings.
Certain supporting characters appear to be underexplored, and the first half takes a while to gain traction.
A more streamlined narrative would have heightened the early impact.
Additionally, while Vaani Kapoor’s part is important, a more pronounced female role could have added further depth to the storyline.
Critical and Commercial Response
Advance ticket sales for Raid 2 exceeded expectations, generating ₹6.52 crore before its release.
Initial reviews have commended the film for its captivating second half, realistic portrayal, and Ajay Devgn’s impressive performance.
Viewers, especially fans of political thrillers and true-crime narratives, are likely to enjoy the film’s dedication to substance over spectacle.
Its relevance in the current climate of accountability and anti-corruption movements enhances its significance.
Future Prospects and OTT Release
Due to the favorable reception, Raid 2 is anticipated to perform strongly at the box office in the coming weeks.
The film is scheduled to debut on Netflix around late June or early July 2025, following the standard 60-day theatrical release.
The digital premiere is expected to further expand its audience, particularly among those who value content-driven, realistic dramas.
Also check: Jaat (2025) movie review
Conclusion
Raid 2 is a fitting follow-up to its predecessor, providing a more intense, nuanced, and expansive exploration of income tax raids and financial justice.
With Raj Kumar Gupta directing and supported by a remarkable cast and crew, the film adeptly merges drama with realism.
Ajay Devgn grounds the film with strong conviction, while Riteish Deshmukh’s unexpected transformation into a formidable antagonist injects novelty.
For viewers who appreciate thoughtful cinema with social significance and narrative richness, Raid 2 is essential viewing in theaters—and soon on Netflix.
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