Before Dhadak 2: How Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter’s debut in Dhadak became a Rs 112 crore hit

When Dhadak premiered in July 2018, it marked the Bollywood debuts of Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter, and what a memorable entrance it was. Despite the film’s mixed reviews, both of them were appreciated for delivering strong performances in a film, that tackled sensitive issues of caste.

Khatter had already a fan-following, owing to his portrayal of raw grief in Majid Majidi’s Beyond the Clouds. His ability to capture the complexities, nuances and emotional depth of a character did not go unnoticed.  Critics immediately noticed his ability to shift effortlessly between youthful exuberance and heart-wrenching sorrow, calling him a “natural performer” with a 'mobile, expressive face'.

In Dhadak, His portrayal of Madhukar anchored the film’s emotional impact, and he earned the Screen Award for Best Male Debut for not just Dhadak, but also his earlier effort in Beyond the Clouds

Janhvi Kapoor, even while grappling with personal grief and tragedy as her mother, Sridevi had passed away that year, brought an honest vulnerability to Parthavi.  Her performance earned effusive praise from Bollywood icons Javed Akhtar and Shabana Azmi, calling her a "worthy daughter of a worthy mother" and predicting a bright future ahead

The excitement extended far beyond critics. Bollywood stars like Madhuri Dixit, Sonam Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, and Ashutosh Gowariker attended early screenings and publicly remarked on the duo’s captivating chemistry and sincerity. Kapoor dubbed their debut “stunning,” while Madhuri called the film “beautiful and intense,” with special praise for Janhvi and Ishaan’s performances

Ultimately, Dhadak's success—grossing over ₹112.98 crore worldwide—proved that despite the backdrop of nepotism controversies, Kapoor and Khatter were ready to cement their position in Bollywood.

And now, Dhadak 2, starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Tripti Dimri is out too, which focuses on social issues, once more.