The highly anticipated sequel ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’, directed by Aditya Dhar, was released in theaters on March 19. Following the massive success of the first installment, which premiered on December 5, 2025, expectations were exceptionally high regarding the return of Akshaye Khanna’s character, Rahman Dakait. While the first film established Rahman Dakait as a formidable antagonist, the sequel has left many fans yearning for more of the actor’s screen presence.
The narrative of the sequel picks up from the events of the first part, where the demise of Rahman Dakait was depicted. Prior to the release, there was significant speculation among the audience and on social media platforms that the character might return through a plot twist or extensive flashback sequences, while however, upon the film's release, it was revealed that Akshaye Khanna’s involvement is restricted to a very brief appearance.
The Phenomenon of Rahman Dakait
Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal of Rahman Dakait in the original ‘Dhurandhar’ film earned him widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following. The character’s intensity and the actor’s nuanced performance were considered the highlights of the franchise's debut. This popularity led to a surge in expectations for the sequel, with many believing that the story would explore deeper into the character's past or provide a surprising revelation. The impact of the character was such that even after his death in the first part, he remained the central point of discussion for the franchise.
Limited Screen Presence in the Sequel
In ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’, the presence of Akshaye Khanna is minimal. According to viewers and reports, the actor appears on screen for only a few seconds during a funeral scene. Apart from this brief moment, the character of Rahman Dakait is represented through posters and mentions within the dialogue to maintain the narrative's continuity. There are no new major scenes or dialogues featuring Akshaye Khanna, which has come as a surprise to many who expected a more substantial contribution to the sequel’s plot.
Character Legacy within the Narrative
Despite the lack of physical screen time for Akshaye Khanna, the legacy of Rahman Dakait continues to drive the story forward. The plot of the sequel is heavily influenced by the vacuum left by the character and the subsequent power struggle. According to production insiders, the decision to limit the character's appearance was a creative choice to focus on the evolution of the story and the introduction of new conflicts. The name Rahman Dakait serves as a shadow over the proceedings, providing a thematic link between the two films without requiring the actor's constant presence.
Commercial Performance and Directorial Vision
Directed by Aditya Dhar, ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ has shown strong commercial momentum at the box office since its release. The film features a diverse cast, including several actors who have made a return to the big screen after a hiatus. While the limited role of Akshaye Khanna has been a point of contention among fans, the film’s overall production quality and direction have received positive feedback. The sequel aims to expand the universe established in the first part, focusing on high-octane action and a complex narrative structure that has resonated with the general audience.
Audience Reception and Social Media Buzz
The release has sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with many fans expressing their disappointment over the 'missing' Rahman Dakait. Hashtags related to Akshaye Khanna and the film have trended, with users sharing their thoughts on the brief cameo. While some feel that the marketing led them to expect more, others appreciate the film for its independent storyline. The commercial success of the film, despite the controversy surrounding the character's screen time, indicates a strong interest in the franchise's future and Aditya Dhar’s directorial approach.
