In a development that has sent ripples through the Indian film industry, the “Dhurandhar” franchise is preparing to bring back its most formidable antagonist. Reports confirm that Akshaye Khanna is officially returning for the highly anticipated sequel, Dhurandhar 2. While his character, the menacing Rehman Dakait, met a definitive end in the original film, the creative team has found a compelling way to weave him back into the narrative.
The news comes as a massive boost for the film’s hype, which is already reaching a fever pitch ahead of its scheduled release on March 19, 2026. With a cast that reads like a “who’s who” of Bollywood powerhouses, the addition of Khanna’s intense screen presence ensures that the sequel will delve deeper into the lore established in the first installment.
Fans will vividly remember the high-stakes conclusion of the first film, where Rehman Dakait’s storyline reached a bloody and conclusive end. However, modern cinematic storytelling often finds strength in the past. Rather than a supernatural resurrection, the makers of Dhurandhar 2 are opting for a prequel-style exploration.
Sources close to the production reveal that Akshaye Khanna will shoot a special segment for approximately one week. This brief but pivotal shoot aims to explore the earlier timeline of Rehman Dakait, providing audiences with the “origin story” of the villain who pushed the protagonists to their absolute limits. These flashback sequences will reportedly serve as a narrative bridge, explaining the unresolved motivations that fuel the conflict in the sequel.
The decision to bring Khanna back for a cameo/extended flashback highlights the creative team’s commitment to character depth. By dedicating a specific portion of the film to Dakait’s backstory, the director and writers are looking to add layers of complexity to the franchise’s history.
The report suggests that these scenes will be filmed in the near future during a tightly scheduled block. Despite the short duration of the shoot, the impact of these scenes is expected to be significant. Akshaye Khanna, known for his ability to command the screen with minimal dialogue, will reportedly film some of the most intense dialogue-driven sequences in the film, giving fans a glimpse into the making of a monster.
While Akshaye Khanna’s return provides a nostalgic and narrative hook, the core of Dhurandhar 2 remains its massive ensemble cast. Ranveer Singh returns to lead the charge, bringing his trademark energy to a role that has already become a fan favourite.
The sequel scales up the action by surrounding Singh with a “League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” that includes Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun and others.
The synergy of these actors under one banner makes Dhurandhar 2 one of the most expensive and ambitious projects in recent history. The addition of Akshaye Khanna, even in a limited capacity, completes a puzzle of talent that few films can boast.
With a release date set for March 19, 2026, Dhurandhar 2 is positioning itself to dominate the early summer box office. The “Dhurandhar Wave” is real, and trade analysts suggest that the film is eyeing a record-breaking opening. By releasing on a Thursday, the makers are looking to capitalize on an extended four-day weekend, a strategy often used for films with “Blockbuster” written all over them.
In an era of disposable action movies, the Dhurandhar franchise stands out for its focus on strong, character-driven antagonists. Akshaye Khanna’s Rehman Dakait wasn’t just a villain; he was a mirror to the hero’s struggle. By exploring his earlier timeline, the sequel promises to answer the “why” behind the “what,” making the overall story more resonant.
As the production enters its final stages, the anticipation for that first teaser—likely featuring a glimpse of a younger Rehman Dakait—continues to grow.
The return of the Dakait is imminent, and the stakes have never been higher. March 19 cannot come soon enough for the millions of fans waiting to see how the past influences the present in the world of Dhurandhar.
