Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh Steal the Show: Our Raid 2 Review!

Raid 2, the follow-up to the popular 2018 movie Raid, stars Ajay Devgn as the uncorruptible IRS inspector Amay Patnaik. The film, which was directed by Raj Kumar Gupta and came out on May 1, 2025, follows Patnaik as he takes on another case of white-collar crime, this time against Dada Manohar Bhai, a well-known and influential politician who is portrayed by Riteish Deshmukh. Even while the sequel aims to expand on the original's idea, its predictable plot and erratic pacing only make it half-interesting.

The Storyline Takes a Known Route:

Raid 2 is set seven years after the events of Raid and centers on Amay Patnaik's 75th raid, this time in Bhoj, Rajasthan, where he targets Dada Manohar Bhai, who is thought to be untouchable. Even though Dada Bhai has a solid reputation and a lot of power, Patnaik believes he has illicit assets. Patnaik is suspended after the first raid fails to provide any results. After that, the movie chronicles Patnaik's unwavering attempts, despite obstacles, to find the truth and hold Dada Bhai accountable.

 

Performances: Shine by Riteish Deshmukh and Intensity by Ajay Devgn:

Once more, Ajay Devgn portrays the steadfast Amay Patnaik in a nuanced yet powerful performance. He does a good job of embodying the character's honesty and resolve. He doesn't get much new character development in the movie, either.

Riteish Deshmukh, who plays the antagonist Dada Manohar Bhai, gives the most impressive performance. His portrayal of a seemingly modest yet powerful and unscrupulous politician is intriguing, and he excels in a role that lets him explore a darker side.

Ileana D'Cruz plays Amay Patnaik's wife, Malini, but Vaani Kapoor takes her place. Although she and Ajay Devgn have a strong on-screen chemistry, her part doesn't significantly deepen the primary plot.

 

Technical Aspects and Direction:

The first film's genuine and gritty tone is something that director Raj Kumar Gupta tries to preserve. But in the first half, the screenplay seems strained and cliched. With more exciting aspects and an improved background score by Amit Trivedi, the second half gains up speed. Although Sudhir K. Chaudhary's cinematography is respectable, the editing could have been more precise to keep the movie moving at a steady tempo.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

- Riteish Deshmukh's Performance: One of the film's highlights is his portrayal of the adversary.
- Interesting Second Half: There are more surprises and intrigue in the second half of the movie.
- Ajay Devgn's Relentless Performance: He does a good job as the resolute lead.
- Connected Plot: The plot of the sequel seems like a logical progression for viewers who have already seen Raid.

Cons:

- Predictable Plot: Particularly in the first half, the plot feels recognizable and has few noteworthy turns.
- Slow Paced First Half: The first half of the movie puts viewers to the test.
- Superfluous Songs: The crime thriller's pace is broken by the insertion of several songs.
- Weak Climax: The conclusion may not have the impact that was anticipated.
- Lack of Depth: Both the first half's narration and the characters' general growth should have been improved.

Raid 2 is a decent criminal thriller, mostly because to Ajay Devgn's performances and Riteish Deshmukh's standout performance. The first half's slowness and predictable plot are major flaws, but the second half's exciting features successfully hold the audience's attention. Although genre fans may find it entertaining, it falls short of its predecessor.

Rating: 3 / 5

 

#Raid2 #MovieReview #AjayDevgn #RiteishDeshmukh #VaaniKapoor #Bollywood #CrimeThriller

Abir Gulaal Wraps Up Shoot!

The romantic comedy Abir Gulaal, starring Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor and Pakistani superstar Fawad Khan, started filming on September 29, 2024, at several sites in and around London. The latest reports suggest that the two have wrapped up their filming in the British metropolis. The film, which is being produced by Aarjay Pictures, Indian Stories, and A Richer Lens, is directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, who also produced Chalti Rahe Zindagi.

The 40-day filming schedule for Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor's upcoming film in London is finally finished, according to a daily. Reports state that a small group of people would initially see the film. It also mentions that the film's producers intend to promote it internationally, starting with screenings at various film festivals.

After it has screened at significant international film festivals, the business behind this cross-cultural project will determine whether to release it in theaters. Sometime in the second half of 2025, the movie is expected to be released in Indian theaters.

They also believed that due of their engaging performances and undeniable appeal, audiences will be captivated by the on-screen romance between Fawad and Vaani Kapoor.

According to filmmaker Aarti S. Bagdi's plot synopsis, the movie follows the journey of two people who, by chance, help one other recover, with love emerging as an unexpected climax. Fawad was adored and admired for his roles in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Kapoor & Sons, and other movies.

In Abir Gulaal, Fawad Khan portrays a chef who works in the UK. The film also features Lisa Hayden in addition to Vaani. Abir Gulaal is being directed by Arti Bagdi and produced by Vivek B. Agarwal, Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy.

Akshay Kumar divulges about ‘embarrassing search history’ of co-star Vaani Kapoor!

The release date of Khel Khel Mein, the next movie starring Akshay Kumar, is August 15, 2024. As the film's release date draws closer, the main cast—Pragya Jaiswal, Aditya Seal, VaaniKapoor, Ammy Virk, Fardeen Khan, and Akshay Kumar—sat down for an interview. They talked about the film, laughing and sharing funny stories about their co-stars. At the time, Khiladi Kumar admitted that he could not get by without his smartphone.

During a media chat, Akshay Kumar acknowledged that he is among those people who find it difficult to put down their phone. In answer, Fardeen Khan stated that he enhances the quality of his sleep by listening to calming music. However, they all agreed that Ammy is the one who doesn't care about his phone.

When asked which of them could have a "embarrassing search history," the Sarfira actor pointed straight to his co-star Vaani Kapoor. The fact that Fardeen "downloaded but never used" a dating app on his phone was also revealed during the meeting. The Khel Khel Mein team joined Akshay Kumar in a media debate.

Kumar was open and honest with us about his career path and his response to criticism. He asserted that his answer depends only on the information provided. "What is the history of this person? The Entertainment star went on, "What has the person done in life?" adding that there are various forms of criticism.

He further disclosed, “One is a personal criticism, where the person goes personal. One is the person who wants the other person to improve, which he is saying from his heart. So, I like that kind, which I take it in a very right way, I understand it, and I go for it. I have done many changes because of criticism also. When I hear a right criticism, when I understand it, and it makes sense to me, I will go for it.” Apart from these actors, Taapsee Pannu will be involved in a big way in the Mudassar Aziz movie.

Vaani Kapoor: The Rising Star of Bollywood!

Vaani Kapoor is a captivating Indian actress who has made a significant mark in the Bollywood film industry. With her ethereal beauty and undeniable talent, she has quickly risen to become a sought-after leading lady.

From Modeling to Movies

Born on August 23, 1988, in Delhi, India, Vaani Kapoor initially ventured into the world of modeling before making her acting debut. Her journey into the glamorous world began after completing a bachelor's degree in tourism studies and working with renowned hospitality brands like Oberoi Hotels and ITC.

Bollywood Debut and Breakthrough

Vaani's acting career took off with the romantic comedy, Shuddh Desi Romance (2013), produced by Yash Raj Films. Her portrayal of a free-spirited and independent woman earned her critical acclaim and several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut.

Following the success of her debut, Vaani continued to impress with her performances in films like Befikre (2016), where she showcased her acting range and chemistry with co-star Ranveer Singh.

A Versatile Actress

Vaani Kapoor has proven her versatility as an actress by taking on diverse roles. From the bubbly and charming characters to strong and independent women, she has effortlessly embraced every challenge. Her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level has made her a beloved figure in the industry.

Continued Success

With each film, Vaani Kapoor's star continues to rise. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her striking screen presence, has solidified her position as one of the most promising talents in Bollywood.

Would you like to know more about Vaani Kapoor's upcoming projects or her personal life?

Akshay Kumar’s reunion again with Vaani Kapoor, Taapsee Pannu for Khel Khel Mein!

Bollywood’s evergreen actor Akshay Kumar is all set to return with a comedy film and has signed a new film titled Khel Khel Mein. As per media updates, the Khiladi actor has come on board in director Mudassar Aziz's next comic entertainer. The movie will be produced by Bhushan Kumar and Ashwin Varde, but the timelines of the shoot are not known yet.

As per media reports, Vaani Kapoor and Taapsee Pannu will also be a part of Khel Khel Mein.  With this, Akshay will reunite with his two co-stars. Earlier, the Entertainment actor collaborated with Vaani in Bell Bottom, while Taapsee and Akshay were seen together in Naam Shabana and Mission Mangal. The report further revealed that in addition to this, the movie will also feature Punjabi singer and actor Ammy Virk in a key role. More actors will be soon coming on board, but details are yet to be finalized. Meanwhile, the film is expected to go on floors next year.

Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh have intriguing personalities, says Vaani Kapoor!

Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor is one of the most bold and hot actresses in Bollywood. She proved her proficiency in acting from Shuddh Desi Romance to Befikre, War and Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui. On the other side, Ranbir Kapoor is one of the big film in Bollywood. Shamshera marks the first collaboration for Vaani Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor.

In a latest media chat before Shamshera release, Vaani was questioned about the similarities and differences between the two actors she has worked with, Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. Vaani responded, “Both are brilliant actors and phenomenal at what they do. They are dreams for any filmmaker, producer or co-actor. The one thing they don’t have in common is personalities. They both have such distinct personalities. Ranbir is super chill I think and Ranveer is super hyper, in a good way, and he has great energy.” Later, Vaani ended by saying that Ranbir Kapoor too had great energy.

Ranbir Kapoor and Vaani Kapoor’s sizzling photoshoot for Shamshera!

Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor is gearing up for Shamshera. Starring in a unique avatar, Ranbir Kapoor has already sent his admirers into a tizzy with the trailer and his look. Now, the Rockstar actor has been turning up the heat with his co-star Vaani Kapoor. As Ranbir and Vaani did a sizzling photoshoot for the promotions of Shamshera.

The actors who play Balli and Sona, have been making social media an even more buzzing place with these new pics. Recently, Yash Raj Films dropped a brand new set of photos featuring Ranbir and Vaani. In the pics, the actors look hot as they hold each other close.

Sharing the pics, YRF captioned it, "Keeping each other company... Balli & Sona. Celebrate #Shamshera with #YRF50 only at a theatre near you on 22nd July. #RanbirKapoor | @duttsanjay | @karanmalhotra21 | @shamsheramovie | #Shamshera22ndJuly."

Vaani Kapoor to reveal about her role in Ranbir Kapoor starrer Shamshera!

Beautiful actress Vaani Kapoor is readying for the release of her forthcoming movie ‘Shamshera’ featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt in lead roles. The movie marks first union of Ranbir and Vaani for a film. The actress essays the love interest of Ranbir’s character Sona who is a dancer.

Explaining her character in the movie, Vaani told she essays the character of Sona, the most sought-after travelling performer of India in the 1800s. She further added, “I have always chosen roles where my character pivots the script in a certain direction and in Shamshera too, Sona plays an important role in building the narrative,” Vaani revealed to an online portal.

The actress also thanked director Karan Malhotra for seeing her in the role of Sona. She told Karan held her hand at every step of the way and guided her to bring Sona to life. The Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui actress further revealed, “Sona has a strong will power, she’s confident, a go getter yet has her own emotional vulnerabilities. She’s definitely one of the most refreshing characters I have played on screen.”

Speaking about co-star Ranbir Kapoor, the Befikre actress revealed, “I am teaming up with Ranbir Kapoor – a powerhouse of talent. He’s truly a very special actor and my personal favourite.”

Directed by Karan Malhotra, the movie is set to release in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu on July 22, 2022. Shamshera marks Ranbir’s return to the cinemas after 4 years after the release of his 2018 film, Sanju.

Vaani Kapoor in awe of Ranbir’s untouchable talent!

After film War’s success, Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor will be soon seen in her next Shamshera along with Ranbir Kapoor. Shamshera is a period drama.

Recently, after finishing the shoot, Vaani took to her Instagram account to share a photograph of herself and wrote a long warm note along with the photo.  Vaani wrote, "As this beautiful chapter comes to a close, I look back fondly with only gratitude and happiness in abundance. I am eternally grateful for this time and this project in my life... If only the sands of the hourglass could be held back if only time stood still... I would do it all over again and with the same gusto and fervour! Thank you @karanmalhotra21 for your trust in me. Your unflinching confidence in me has been my biggest source of strength as an artist! #RanbirKapoor your talent is untouchable and it makes me smile wider to have you as my companion in this beautiful journey called #Shamshera. Big Love"

Ranbir Kapoor and Vaani Kapoor’s BTS photos from Shamshera!

Presently, Ranbir Kapoor and Vaani Kapoor are gearing for their next Shamshera. For this, Ranbir and Vaani have been working closely with their director, Karan Malhotra. Presently, both have been practicing for their scenes at Yash Raj Films studio.

In a photograph from the Shamshera’s sets, we can see Ranbir, Vaani and director Karan Malhotra fully engrossed in chat with each other. As Karan can be seen explaining a scene to both of them, Ranbir and Vaani seem completely into it. The director seems to have the written scene in hand while Vaani and Ranbir take a look into it.

Siddharth Anand’s new fighters for YRF?

Rumour has it that Siddharth Anand’s new big budget Yash Raj action film has a title.

It seems the Hrithik Roshan, Tiger Shroff and Vaani Kapoor-starrer has been named Fighters. The title hasn’t been confirmed by Sid or anyone else at Aditya Chopra’s company but it sounds fitting for a script that was inspired by the notion of what would happen if James Bond and Ethan Hunt were to clash. YRF is scheduled to drop the first look of the film soon so it shouldn’t be too long before we have a name that’s set in stone.

Vaani Kapoor’s Kathak training for her next Shamshera with Ranbir Kapoor!

After making Jodi with Ranveer Singh in the movie Befikre, Vaani Kapoor will next be seen in the action-adventure movie Shamshera starring Ranbir Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt. Earlier, Vaani Kapoor wrapped up the shooting of the yet untitled movie starring Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff and post that, Vaani dived straight onto the sets of Shamshera and now, this beautiful actress is busy shooting for Shamshera.

As we know that Vaani Kapoor is a wonderful dancer, having wowed us with her dancing moves in the famous song Nashe Si Chadh Gayi and now for Shamshera, Vaani is undergoing rigorous Kathak training to ace the Indian classical moves as she plays the role of a travelling performer from India. Now, Vaani is honing her dancing skills by learning kathak for a few months and we were informed that Vaani has been rehearsing and practicing for hours every day to perfect her dancing and body postures because we all know that Kathak is no mean task.

Ranbir Kapoor and Vaani Kapoor to attend a muhurat pooja for Shamshera’s first schedule!

Ranbir Kapoor, Vaani Kapoor, Karan Malhotra

The first schedule of Yash Raj Film's mega project Shamshera will start off from tomorrow in Mumbai. Film Shamshera stars Ranbir Kapoor, Vaani Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt in key roles. The production house had organised a pooja for Shamshera. The pooja was attended Ranbir Kapoor, director of the movie Karan Malhotra and Vaani Kapoor. As per news, Vaani Kapoor is playing Ranbir's love interest. Sanjay Dutt couldn’t attend the ceremony as he was hectic with his earlier commitments.

Ranvir had previously worked with YRF. He gave his first hit with YRF's Bachna Ae Haseeno and was also seen in banner's critically acclaimed movie Rocket Singh: Salesman of The Year. Now the gap of nine years, he is collaborating with the production house again. “It was amazing to have Shamshera’s cast and crew under one roof before we dive into shooting our film. All of us are excited to start this journey," Karan Malhotra had told in an interview.

Vaani Kapoor’s extra mile efforts for her next with Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff!

Now, Vaani Kapoor will be next seen with Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff in Siddharth Anand's next untitled film. While the movie will have a dance face-off between Hrithik and Tiger, Vaani is also doing preparation for her role in the film. In a media chat, Vaani Kapoor spoke about the movie and her co-stars.

Vaani Revealed, "My prep for the film has started. It’s exciting and I am doing something different in this film. There is a certain training I am required to take up and I am already on that path. It is one of those much-awaited action films, which even I as an audience is looking forward to.”

Actress Vaani Kapoor is going the extra mile to ace her glamorous look in the film. And for the same, stylist Anaita Shroff Adajania has been roped in for the film, to present Vaani in a drop dead gorgeous avatar.

To be shot at numerous international locations, the movie is certainly one of the most expensive action movies ever produced by Bollywood. It is scheduled to release on 2nd October, Gandhi Jayanti 2019.

Working with SRK is a fantastic rumour for Vaani Kapoor!

Gossip mill is abuzz that Vaani Kapoor, who starred in Aditya Chopra's  Befikre, has signed another movie with megastar Shah Rukh Khan.

At an event lately, the actress was questioned about the same. Seemingly, Aditya is keen to sign Vaani opposite SRK in his next. Vaani told, reacting on the news, "I hope that happens. It is a fantastic rumour which I hope turns into a reality. However, I have no idea about it. As of now, I am not in this movie."

On being asked about her upcoming movies, the 28-year-old shared, "Nothing is planned. I am reading scripts right now. I haven't signed anything. There is nothing I can talk about. Whenever something will come, I will make an announcement."

Another new pair for the Bollywood!

Vaani Kapoor shares a pic with her favourite Furball!

Bollywood Actress Vaani Kapoor is presently enjoying the success of Befikre. Post the film's release, she is enjoying some free time and going by her Instagram pictures, she was on a holiday spree with her girl gang. 

And post returning home from her holiday break, Vaani is spending time her favourite pet - a furball of happiness - a cat. 

She took to Instagram and shared a picture of kissing her cat, and captioned it as, "My Furball!!" 

Befikre duo Ranveer and Vaani enter into BIgg Boss House as taskmasters; Salman announces eviction!

The episode satrts with Ranveer and Vaani arriving the Bigg Boss house.

As the twosome enter the house, they welcome all the housemates, Ranveer praises Bani and tries to bring a smile on her crestfallen face. He tells her to stop living in somberness and to have a positive attitude.

Enlivening the house, the Befikre cast Ranveer and Vaani introduce an exciting game for the participants where they have to complete few challenges. If they fail to complete the challenge, they will have to pay penalty for it. The first one to be challenged is Jason who has to do a sexy pole dance to sway Vaani. Jason gives a jaw-dropping act as he grooves to the song ‘Aaj Phir Tum Pe Pyaar Aaya’. Monalisa is challenged to give a sensuous dance performance to ‘Yeh Raat Rukjae’ while seducing Jason.  Priyanka and Bani are asked to give a kiss to Gaurav on his cheek. As both the ladies successfully complete the task, Ranveer pulls Gaurav’s leg by saying that he is one lucky guy to get kisses from two lovely girls. Before making an exit from the house, Ranveer and Vaani shake a leg to the title track of the movie Befikre along with the participants.

After a fun packed session, kick starting the episode with a bang, superstar Salman Khan along with Ranveer Singh set the stage on fire with an electrifying act on Salman’s hit songs.

As a keen follower of the show, Ranveer announces Om Swami as his favorite participant and also tells that if ever he gets a chance to collaborate with him, they can create their own reality show.  After having a quick interaction with them, Salman sends Vaani and Ranveer to the activity area where they have to emulate various Bollywood celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Anil Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra as the participants of the Bigg Boss house.  While Ranveer mimics Shah Rukh, Sanjay and Anil, Vaani attempts to sing like Priyanka Chopra. Salman then introduces another game where the twosome is required to guess the combination of actors’ faces put together in one picture. When a combination picture of Deepika Padukone and Ranveer is flashed on the screen, Salman pokes fun at Ranveer telling that their son will look like it.

The episode comes to an end with Salman Khan disclosing the name of the evicted participant. The episode then sees a caller asking Bani about Priyanka's unexpected changes behaviour towards her.

Salman at last pronounces that Elena Kazan is eliminated from the house.

Ranveer is very supporting and brings life to whatever he does, says Vaani Kapoor!

Bollywood’s leggy lass Vaani Kapoor is all admiration for Ranveer Singh and tells her "Befikre" co-star is very supporting and brings life to whatever he does.

Questioned about Ranveer as a co-star, Vaani revealed, "He really does bring life to wherever he is. Be it any place... Be it on or off camera his energy is really infectious. He never really behaved like a star. He is a very supporting co-actor." 

The 28-year-old actress, who made her acting debut in 2013 with "Shuddh Desi Romance", tells she knew Ranveer before shooting for filmmaker Aditya Chopra's directorial. 

"I've known him before we started shooting for the movie. So we already did have an equation and we really did have a very chilled out vibe. We both were very comfortable being in each other’s' company," she told. 

Vaani tells that this has "made a huge difference because then there was no ice-breaking process that was needed."

"So, it went really smooth actually. We had a very smooth equation," she told. 

Shot extensively in Paris, "Befikre" is a progressive, fresh interpretation of love as viewed in the 21st century. The movie is scheduled to release on December 9.

"Befikre" is a free-spirited, contemporary love story of Dharam (Ranveer) and Shyra (Vaani), who find love in an impulsive, engaging series of experiences.

Ranveer Singh wears Vaani's heels to recreating an evening in Paris on the The Kapil Sharma Show!

Any film's promotion is imperfect until the time the star cast doesn't pay a visit on The Kapil Sharma Show. And lately, Ranveer Singh and Vaani Kapoor visited the sets of The Kapil Sharma Show to promote their film, Befikre. 

Recently, Ranveer and the funny Kapil come in one frame for funny elements. The madness kick started when Ranveer wore Vaani's high heels and tried walking around the sets. Ranveer, then, taught Kapil and Rinku Devi aka Sunil Grover, how to kiss! When Ali Asgar turned into Mastani, Ranveer and Ali's chemistry was sure to has everyone in splits. 

There was also a doppelganger of Ranveer on the show, and well, we leave that up to you to decide how similar does he looks to the megastar. 

Ranveer-Vaani also danced to the hit numbers from their movie and Ranveer  also enacted An Evening to Paris scenario with Sumona Chakravarti. 

Wait for this latest episode of The Kapil Sharma Show.

Ranveer-Vaani's 40 kisses retained in the film Befikre with U/A certificate!

Bollywood stars Ranveer Singh and Vaani Kapoor's Befikre has been getting everybody's attention. It's posters, trailer and the songs; all of them are a craze with the viewers and people are waiting for the film to release, thanks to its bold content and hot kisses!

Ahead of the film's release, reports of the film getting a certificate from CBFC have made the news. Given that both Ranveer and Vaani share nearly 40 kisses in the film, people anticipated cuts from the CBFC.

But, much to everybody's astonishment, Befikre has been passed without cuts and has been granted a U/A certificate. A leading trade portal shared the same news.

Well, if this is true, then it is really some good news!

Directed by Aditya Chopra and produced by Yash Raj Films, Befikre releases on December 9, 2016.