Ajay Devgn has firmly established himself as one of Bollywood’s most bankable and versatile actors. From intense dramas to high-octane action films and rib-tickling comedies, he has mastered almost every genre. However, in recent years, Devgn has emerged as the undisputed “Sequel King” of Bollywood. With multiple sequels lined up, including Raid 2, Son of Sardaar 2, De De Pyaar De 2, Drishyam 3, Dhamaal 5, and Shaitaan 2, it is clear that he has become the go-to star for franchises in the industry.
The Rise of Bollywood Sequels
Bollywood has seen a growing trend of sequels, with filmmakers and producers realizing the commercial potential of established franchises. A successful first film means an existing fanbase, reducing the risk associated with new projects. Ajay Devgn, with his strong screen presence and audience loyalty, has become the biggest beneficiary of this trend. His ability to seamlessly blend into different genres has allowed him to reprise roles that audiences love, ensuring a steady flow of sequels in his filmography.
1. Raid 2: Reviving the Fearless Income Tax Officer
One of Ajay Devgn’s most anticipated sequels is Raid 2, a follow-up to his 2018 hit Raid. The first film, based on real-life events, saw Devgn play Amay Patnaik, a fearless income tax officer who takes on corrupt politicians and businessmen. The film was a critical and commercial success, appreciated for its gripping storytelling and Devgn’s performance.
With Raid 2, Devgn is set to return as the righteous officer, taking on a new high-stakes mission, this time he will be sharing screen space with Ritiiesh Devgn and Vaani Kapoor along with Saurabh Shukla who reprises his role from the first part. Given the success of the first installment and the public’s love for real-life-inspired thrillers, this sequel has massive potential to be another blockbuster.
2. Son of Sardaar 2: A Return to High-Energy Action
Ajay Devgn’s Son of Sardaar (2012) was a mass entertainer packed with action, comedy, and Punjabi swag. Despite clashing with Jab Tak Hai Jaan. the film performed well at the box office and gained a cult following over the years. Now, Son of Sardaar 2 is in the works, promising another dose of high-energy action and humor. While Sanjay Dutt returns to the franchise, the lead actress’s role is headlined by Mrunal Thakur.
This sequel could be a game-changer for Devgn, allowing him to tap into the family audience and rural market that loved the original. With larger-than-life action and signature humor, Son of Sardaar 2 is expected to be a grand cinematic spectacle.
3. De De Pyaar De 2: The Romantic Comedy Comeback
In 2019, De De Pyaar De was a refreshing take on relationships, with Ajay Devgn playing a middle-aged man caught between his young girlfriend (Rakul Preet Singh) and his ex-wife (Tabu). The film was a commercial success and praised for its humor and mature storytelling.
With De De Pyaar De 2, Devgn is set to return to the romantic-comedy genre, which has been a rarity in his recent career. Post Shaitaan, R Madhavan will be sharing the screen space once again with Ajay in this one and he is slated to play the role of Rakul’s father.
4. Drishyam 3: The Ultimate Thriller
If there’s one franchise that has cemented Ajay Devgn’s reputation as a master of suspense, it’s Drishyam. The first film (2015) was a remake of the Malayalam original and became a cult hit. The sequel, Drishyam 2 (2022), proved to be an even bigger success, making over Rs 240 crore worldwide.
Now Mohanlal and Jeethu Joseph, the lead pair of the original Malayalam series announced that they are coming with the third part. Ajay and his team in Mumbai also announced the third installment of the series which is slated to go on floors by the end of the year.
5. Dhamaal 4: Comedy Returns
Ajay Devgn’s involvement in the Dhamaal franchise has been unique. While he wasn’t part of the original Dhamaal (2007) or the second installment Double Dhamaal , he joined the franchise in Total Dhamaal (2019), which became a massive hit despite mixed reviews. Given the film’s box office success, Dhamaal 4 is on the way, and Devgn is expected to reprise his role.
The Dhamaal series has always been known for its slapstick humor and ensemble cast, and Devgn’s presence adds to its star power. With a strong mix of veteran and new comedians, Dhamaal 5 could be another box-office winner.
6. Shaitaan 2: The Horror-Thriller Sensation
Ajay Devgn recently delivered a chilling performance in Shaitaan (2024), a supernatural horror-thriller that became an instant hit. The film’s gripping narrative and psychological tension left audiences wanting more, leading to the confirmation of Shaitaan 2.
Devgn’s ability to balance intensity with subtlety made the first film a standout, and the sequel is expected to raise the stakes even higher. Horror is an underexplored genre in Bollywood, and with Shaitaan 2, Devgn is once again set to push boundaries.
7. Golmaal 5
When Rohit Shetty was shooting the song ‘Aankh maare’ for Simmba he got Arshad Warsi, Kunal Kemmu, Shreyas Talpade and Tusshar Kapoor to got a guest appearance in the film and their segment send with a tease for Golmaal 5. Rohit then went on to direct Sooryvanshi and Singham Again. But the rumours have begun to grow about how Golmaal is once again back on track and he and Ajay Devgn would be teaming up once again to return to comedy together.
Why Ajay Devgn Is Bollywood’s Sequel King
With seven major sequels in the pipeline, Ajay Devgn has solidified his position as Bollywood’s sequel master. But what makes him the perfect fit for franchise films?
1. Versatility Across Genres
Unlike many actors who stick to one type of role, Devgn seamlessly transitions between action, comedy, thriller, and romance. Whether playing an intense tax officer (Raid 2), a funny action hero (Son of Sardaar 2), or a mastermind in a crime thriller (Drishyam 3), he brings credibility to every role.
2. Audience Trust and Loyalty
Over the years, Devgn has built a strong fanbase that eagerly anticipates his films. His track record of delivering box office hits ensures that producers trust him with sequels.
3. Box Office Consistency
Ajay has been one of the most consistent and cost efficient actors in the bsuinss and his films have made money for everyone in the business. He might have struggled with past few films but with the sequels he’s ensuring a smooth run for everyone involved.
