Vaani Kapoor, the vibrant actress who left an indelible mark in the 2019 action-packed blockbuster War, recently opened up about not being part of its highly anticipated sequel, War 2. The sequel, directed by Ayan Mukerji, is set to bring back Hrithik Roshan, joined by fresh faces Kiara Advani and Jr NTR. While fans of the original might be curious about Vaani’s absence, her response was equal parts gracious and hilarious, showcasing her signature charm. Meanwhile, she’s diving headfirst into promoting her upcoming Netflix series, Mandala Murders, a gripping crime thriller that promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Let’s dive into what Vaani had to say about War 2, her thoughts on the sequel, and why Mandala Murders is shaping up to be a must-watch.
Vaani Kapoor’s Playful Reaction to Missing War 2
War 2 is one of the most talked-about sequels in Bollywood, and it’s no surprise that fans are eager to know why Vaani Kapoor, who played a pivotal role in the original War, isn’t returning. In a candid chat with podcaster Siddharth Kanan, Vaani addressed the question with her trademark wit. “No, I’m not in War 2, but I wish the team the absolute best,” she said, her tone warm and supportive. “I feel incredibly grateful that I got to be a part of a film like War, the OG War. It was such a massive, cinematic experience—larger than life. The sequel looks stunning, and I’m rooting for the team to knock it out of the park!”
But Vaani didn’t stop there—she threw in a dash of humor that had fans chuckling. Referencing her and Tiger Shroff’s characters in the original War, she quipped, “Tiger and I both ‘passed away’ in War, you know? Me, Sid [Siddharth Anand, the original director], and Tiger are all out of the sequel. So, I told them, if Tiger’s character somehow makes a comeback, you better believe I’m coming back too, my friend!” Her playful jab at the idea of a miraculous resurrection for their characters was a perfect blend of humor and camaraderie, proving that Vaani holds no grudges and is genuinely excited for War 2’s success.
The original War, released in 2019, was a massive hit, blending high-octane action, stunning visuals, and a gripping storyline. Directed by Siddharth Anand and produced by Yash Raj Films, it set a high bar for Bollywood action films. War 2, slated for release on August 14, 2025, in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil, is poised to take the franchise to new heights under Ayan Mukerji’s direction. With Hrithik Roshan reprising his role, alongside Kiara Advani and Jr NTR, the sequel promises to deliver the same adrenaline-pumping experience fans loved in the first film. Vaani’s gracious response only adds to the anticipation, showing her confidence in the franchise’s legacy.
Why Vaani Kapoor’s Absence in War 2 Isn’t Slowing Her Down
While War 2 is generating buzz, Vaani Kapoor is far from sitting idle. She’s channeling her energy into promoting her next big project, Mandala Murders, a Netflix crime thriller series that’s already creating waves. Directed by Gopi Puthran, known for his work on Mardaani, Mandala Murders sees Vaani stepping into the shoes of an investigative officer in a dark, suspense-filled narrative. The series is set in the fictional town of Charandaspur, where a string of ritualistic killings tied to a secret society and ancient prophecies unfolds. With co-stars Surveen Chawla and Vaibhav Raj Gupta, the show promises a chilling exploration of mystery and intrigue.
Vaani’s role in Mandala Murders is a departure from the glamorous, action-oriented character she played in War. Here, she’s diving into a complex, layered character who navigates a web of crime and conspiracy. The series’ premise—centered around centuries-old prophecies and a shadowy secret society—has already piqued the interest of thriller fans. Vaani’s excitement for the project is palpable, and her recent promotional appearances show her fully immersed in bringing this story to life.
In my opinion, Vaani’s shift to a project like Mandala Murders is a brilliant move. While War showcased her ability to shine in a high-glam, action-packed role, Mandala Murders allows her to flex her acting chops in a gritty, narrative-driven series. It’s a testament to her versatility as an actress, proving she can hold her own in both blockbuster films and intense, character-driven dramas. Her decision to take on such a challenging role also signals her intent to carve out a unique space in the industry, beyond the typical Bollywood heroine archetype.
What Makes Mandala Murders a Must-Watch?
Mandala Murders isn’t just another crime thriller—it’s a deep dive into a world of mystery, suspense, and psychological intrigue. Set in the eerie town of Charandaspur, the series follows Vaani Kapoor’s character as she investigates a series of ritualistic murders. These killings aren’t random; they’re connected to a secret society and prophecies that date back centuries, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The show’s dark, atmospheric tone, combined with its intricate plot, makes it a standout in the crowded world of streaming content.
Directed by Gopi Puthran, Mandala Murders benefits from his experience crafting taut, engaging thrillers. His work on Mardaani demonstrated his knack for blending intense storytelling with strong character arcs, and early buzz suggests Mandala Murders will follow suit. Surveen Chawla and Vaibhav Raj Gupta, both talented actors known for their nuanced performances, add depth to the ensemble, making this series a compelling watch for fans of the genre.
For Vaani, Mandala Murders is a chance to showcase a different side of her talent. Her role as an investigative officer requires her to balance grit, intelligence, and vulnerability—a far cry from the high-octane glamour of War. Fans of the actress are in for a treat as she steps into this new avatar, and the series’ unique blend of crime, mystery, and supernatural elements is sure to keep viewers hooked.
The Buzz Around War 2
While Vaani Kapoor is busy with Mandala Murders, War 2 continues to dominate headlines. The sequel, produced and distributed by Yash Raj Films, is one of the most anticipated releases of 2025. With Ayan Mukerji at the helm, known for his visually stunning and emotionally resonant films like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Brahmastra, War 2 is expected to elevate the franchise’s signature mix of action and drama. Hrithik Roshan’s return as the charismatic lead, combined with Kiara Advani’s fresh energy and Jr NTR’s powerhouse presence, has fans eagerly awaiting the film’s release on August 14, 2025.
The decision to bring in new faces while retaining Hrithik Roshan ensures that War 2 feels both familiar and fresh. Ayan Mukerji’s directorial vision, paired with Yash Raj Films’ production prowess, promises a cinematic spectacle that builds on the original’s success. Vaani’s lighthearted comments about her and Tiger Shroff’s characters “passing away” in the first film only add to the intrigue—will War 2 find a creative way to nod to the original cast, or will it chart an entirely new path? Only time will tell.
Vaani Kapoor’s Bright Future
Vaani Kapoor’s response to missing War 2 is a masterclass in grace and humor. Instead of dwelling on her absence from the sequel, she’s focused on celebrating the opportunity she had with the original War and pouring her energy into Mandala Murders. Her ability to pivot to a project as exciting and different as Mandala Murders speaks volumes about her growth as an actress. In my view, this is exactly the kind of career move that will cement her as a versatile performer capable of tackling diverse roles.
As War 2 gears up for its theatrical release and Mandala Murders prepares to drop on Netflix, Vaani Kapoor is proving she’s a force to be reckoned with. Whether she’s cracking jokes about her character’s fate or diving into the dark world of a crime thriller, Vaani’s star power is undeniable. Fans of both War 2 and Mandala Murders have plenty to look forward to, and Vaani’s infectious energy ensures she’ll remain a beloved figure in Bollywood.
Aamir Ahmad Fateh is a seasoned digital marketer and experienced news writer with over 7 years of expertise in covering political affairs, social issues, technology, sports, and Bollywood. He is the founder and chief editor of 24fnews.com, where he is dedicated to delivering accurate, unbiased, and timely news to a wide audience every day. His sharp insights and journalistic integrity make him a trusted voice in the digital news space.
