Karan Johar Reveals Why Dhadak 2 Release Was Delayed

At the trailer launch of Dhadak 2, producer Karan Johar finally addressed the delay in the film’s release, now scheduled for August 1, 2025, after multiple postponements. He emphasized that the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) played a helpful and sensitive role and credited them with compassion while dealing with the film’s delicate subject of caste-based love, that too, with 16 cuts during certification.

Karan explained, “It took time to reach theatres, but even the censor board was very understanding and very compassionate and absolutely understood what we were trying to say.” He praised the CBFC’s intentions to protect sensitivity and pledged that the team also honoured that sensitivity, avoiding any compromise in storytelling.

He shared that despite the usual fear of backlash in handling social themes like caste, he firmly believes that artistic freedom should not be curtailed. Echoing a powerful line from the film, he said, “‘If you’ve a choice, then fight’, and the best way to point a put across is through art.” Karan also highlighted that “good art cannot be rushed” and that delays sometimes help films find their true form, “These things can’t happen overnight… every good thing takes time.” This mirrors his broader approach, mainstream cinema can, and should, challenge societal norms with care and depth .

Dhadak 2, directed by Shazia Iqbal, stars Siddhant Chaturvedi as Neelesh and Triptii Dimri as Vidhi. The plot follows their college romance, which becomes complicated by caste divisions. Originally planned for November 2024, the release was moved to early 2025 and then to August 1, 2025, due to certification and creative changes .

Karan reiterated his confidence in the final film, “It is a story that makes you wake up and think… this is a true reality of our times, no matter where you live”. With its honest portrayal of caste and heartfelt performances, Dhadak 2 aims to engage audiences and spark meaningful, nationwide conversations.