After the huge success of Raid in 2018. The audience had long awaited the return of the fearless IRS officer Amay Patnaik. Their wait ended with the release of Raid 2 on May 1, 2025. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the sequel brings back the same intensity and realism that made the first film such a hit. This time, the story dives deeper into the world of white-collar crime. With more power, more money at stake, and even more political resistance standing in the way of justice. Starring Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, and Vaani Kapoor. Raid 2 is an intense crime drama that blends patriotism, action, and investigation into an engaging story.
Star Cast and Performances
- Leading the film is Ajay Devgn as Amay Patnaik, the honest and determined income tax officer who will stop at nothing to fight corruption. Devgn brings the same sharp focus and controlled aggression that made his character iconic in the first film. He portrays the weight of duty with calm authority. Showing both the mental toughness and emotional restraint required of a man going up against powerful enemies.
- Riteish Deshmukh, as Dada Manohar Bhai, plays the stylish and cunning antagonist who is involved in massive illegal financial operations. Known more for comic or romantic roles, Riteish surprises viewers with his serious and chilling performance as a white-collar criminal with deep political connections.
- Vaani Kapoor joins the franchise as Dr. Nandini, a forensic expert, and Patnaik’s silent support throughout the investigation. Her performance is restrained but significant, and she shares subtle chemistry with Ajay on screen. Supporting roles by Rajat Kapoor and Saurabh Shukla add strength to the cast and contribute significantly to the storyline.
Plot Summary: Power, Politics, and an Explosive Raid
- Raid 2 takes place seven years after the events of the first film. IRS officer Amay Patnaik is now leading a special unit focused on exposing large-scale financial frauds. When a massive money laundering network is uncovered. All leads point to Dada Manohar Bhai, a powerful businessman with deep political backing. As Patnaik prepares his biggest raid yet, he is faced with life-threatening resistance from corrupt officials. Political leaders, and the criminal underworld.
- The investigation is filled with twists, and as Patnaik digs deeper, he discovers how widespread and complex the financial scam truly is. Unlike the first film which focused on a single target, Raid 2 has multiple layers — involving shell companies, offshore accounts, and fake identities. The film portrays not only the details of the financial investigation but also the emotional cost of fighting such a dangerous war. The climax is both dramatic and satisfying, offering justice with an emotional punch.
Direction and Technical Brilliance
- Director Raj Kumar Gupta brings back the raw energy and realism that defined Raid. His storytelling is tight, focused, and without unnecessary distractions. The screenplay balances drama and investigation well, and the pacing keeps viewers engaged throughout. Gupta also ensures that the film doesn’t fall into the trap of unnecessary melodrama. Instead, it stays rooted in realism, which makes the raid sequences even more impactful.
- Sudhir K. Chaudhary’s cinematography captures the tension of long interrogations, dark political corridors, and sudden raid actions with skill. The visuals are gritty and grounded, making the setting feel authentic. Sandeep Francis does a good job with the editing, keeping the film crisp while maintaining room for suspense and emotional depth.
Music and Soundtrack
The music of Raid 2 is varied and catchy, thanks to the combined efforts of composers Yo Yo Honey Singh, Amit Trivedi, Rochak Kohli, Sachet–Parampara, and White Noise Collective. The album contains four notable songs:
- “Nasha” – A high-energy track that has gone viral.
- “Kamle” – A romantic number that gives a soft break from the intense story.
- “Tumhe Dillagi” – A beautiful remake of the Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan classic.
- “Money Money” – A funky track that mirrors the theme of greed and corruption.
The background score also plays a crucial role, adding intensity during investigation scenes and emotional weight during key moments.
Box Office Performance
Raid 2 had a strong opening at the box office. It collected ₹18.25 crore on Day 1. By Day 3, collections rose to ₹18 crore, showing a solid jump. As of its first weekend, the total box office earnings stood at ₹49.25 crore, making it one of the best-performing Bollywood releases of 2025 so far.
Despite facing competition from other films like HIT: The Third Case and Retro, Raid 2 has managed to hold its ground due to strong performances, engaging content, and solid fan support from Ajay Devgn’s loyal audience base.
Audience and Critics Verdict
Audiences have largely appreciated the film for its realistic tone, gripping raid sequences, and performances. Ajay Devgn’s role has been widely praised, especially his silent intensity and emotional depth. Riteish Deshmukh’s turn as the villain has also received positive reviews, with many calling it one of his best roles to date.
Critics have given Raid 2 mostly positive feedback. While some noted the film’s slightly slow pace in the middle, most agree that the film picks up well and finishes strong. The storyline is not only engaging but also thought-provoking, and it sparks conversation about accountability and justice in the real world.
Final Thoughts
Raid 2 delivers exactly what fans of the first film were hoping for — high-stakes action, emotional drama, and a sharp focus on justice. Ajay Devgn proves again why he is the king of patriotic thrillers. Director Raj Kumar Gupta ensures that the film stays grounded and gripping. With powerful performances, a realistic approach, and a satisfying payoff, Raid 2 is a must-watch for those who enjoy real-life-inspired crime dramas.
