‘Dhak Dhak’ Sequel Script Ready, Sanjana Sanghi Confirms as Film Finds Second Life on Netflix

Key facts

• Sanjana Sanghi confirmed the script for ‘Dhak Dhak 2’ is ready.
• The sequel is directed by Tarun Dudeja, who also helmed the original.
• Original cast includes Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza, and Sanjana Sanghi.
• The 2023 film ‘Dhak Dhak’ had a lukewarm box office run.
• The film gained popularity after premiering on Netflix.
• The story revolves around four women on a road trip to Khardung La.
• Production timelines for the sequel remain uncertain.

A Surprise Second Act for a Road-Trip Drama

When ‘Dhak Dhak’ hit theatres in 2023, it did not set the box office ablaze. Yet the film, directed by Tarun Dudeja, has found a second life on Netflix, amassing a devoted audience that has now paved the way for a sequel. Sanjana Sanghi, one of the film’s leads, recently confirmed that the script for ‘Dhak Dhak 2’ is complete and that the core team is eager to reunite. The sequel’s script has been approved by all principal cast members, including Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza, and Sanghi herself. Dudeja, who wrote and directed the original, has also penned the follow-up, ensuring continuity in tone and character development.

From Theatrical Disappointment to Streaming Success

‘Dhak Dhak’ originally struggled to draw crowds in cinemas, a fate shared by many mid-budget Hindi films in a post-pandemic market. However, its release on Netflix introduced the story to a wider audience, who embraced its themes of female friendship and self-discovery. The film’s OTT performance convinced the filmmakers that a sequel was viable. Sanghi told Mid-Day, “It's a script that we're all excited by, something that we've all said yes to. Tarun has done a stellar job in staying true to the characters. We can't wait to reunite for it.” Her remarks underscore the collective enthusiasm among the cast and crew.

The Journey of Four Women to Khardung La

The original film followed four women from different walks of life who embark on a transformative road trip to Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. Each character confronts personal struggles and emerges changed by the journey. The narrative’s emotional resonance appears to have struck a chord with streaming audiences, who propelled the film to cult status. Details of the sequel’s plot remain under wraps, but Sanghi’s confirmation that Dudeja has “stayed true to the characters” suggests the new installment will continue the protagonists’ stories rather than reboot the concept.

Uncertain Timelines but Firm Commitment

While the script is ready, Sanghi acknowledged that production schedules have not been set. “Timelines for production are still uncertain,” she said, reflecting the challenges of coordinating the busy calendars of the film’s ensemble cast. Fatima Sana Shaikh, for instance, is currently captaining Pakistan’s women’s cricket team in ODI and T20I series against Zimbabwe and South Africa, a high-profile commitment that may affect availability. Despite the logistical hurdles, the creative team appears determined to move forward. The sequel’s greenlight marks a rare instance of a film that underperformed theatrically earning a second chance based on streaming data and audience demand.

A Broader Trend: OTT Revivals and Female-Centric Stories

The ‘Dhak Dhak’ sequel is part of a growing pattern in Indian cinema where films that initially struggled in theatres find new life on digital platforms. Streaming services have become a crucial arbiter of a film’s long-term success, often driving decisions about sequels and spin-offs. Moreover, the film’s focus on women’s experiences—rare in mainstream Bollywood—resonated with viewers seeking diverse narratives. The sequel’s development also highlights the enduring appeal of road-trip movies as a vehicle for character-driven storytelling. With the script locked and the cast on board, ‘Dhak Dhak 2’ now awaits a production start date that will bring the four women back to the screen.

The bottom line

• Sanjana Sanghi has confirmed that the script for ‘Dhak Dhak 2’ is ready and approved by the cast.
• The 2023 original film gained a strong following on Netflix after a weak theatrical release.
• Director Tarun Dudeja returns for the sequel, maintaining continuity in character arcs.
• The sequel’s production timeline remains unconfirmed due to cast scheduling conflicts.
• The film’s revival underscores the growing influence of OTT platforms on franchise decisions in Bollywood.
• ‘Dhak Dhak’ is a rare example of a female-led road-trip drama earning a sequel based on streaming demand.