The YRF Spy Universe has redefined the landscape of Indian cinema, creating an unprecedented interconnected world of espionage thrillers that has captivated audiences globally. At the heart of this cinematic revolution lies the “War” franchise, which began with the 2019 blockbuster “War” and reached new heights with its 2025 sequel “War 2.”
The journey from War to War 2 represents a seismic shift in how Indian films are conceived, produced, and received by audiences worldwide.
War 2019
The original War (2019), directed by Siddharth Anand, introduced audiences to the charismatic yet mysterious RAW agent Kabir Dhaliwal, portrayed by Hrithik Roshan, and his protege-turned-adversary Khalid Rahmani, played by Tiger Shroff.
The tremendous success of War (2019), which earned ₹53.35 crore on its opening day in India alone, convinced Yash Raj Films to expand the character’s role within their growing spy universe.
The post-credits scene of Tiger 3, directed by Ayan Mukerji, featured Hrithik Roshan reprising his role as Kabir, setting the stage for War 2 and confirming the interconnected nature of the universe.
War 2 2025
War 2, directed by Ayan Mukerji of Brahmāstra fame, represents the sixth installment in the YRF Spy Universe and serves as a direct sequel to the 2019 film.
War 2 brings together an ensemble of powerhouse performers:
- Hrithik Roshan reprises his role as Major Kabir Dhaliwal (codenamed “Kaboo”).
- N. T. Rama Rao Jr. (NTR Jr.) makes his Hindi film debut as Major Vikram Chelapathi (codenamed “Raghu”).
- Kiara Advani plays Wing Commander Kavya Luthra, daughter of Colonel Sunil Luthra and Kabir’s former love interest.
- Ashutosh Rana returns as Colonel Sunil Luthra from War and Pathaan.
- Anil Kapoor joins the cast as Vikrant Kaul
- Bobby Deol makes a special cameo appearance that sets up his role in the upcoming Spy Universe film “Alpha”
| Record Category | Achievement | Previous Record Holder |
| Opening Day India Collection | ₹52 crore | War (2019): ₹53.35 crore |
| Worldwide Opening Day | ₹84 crore | War (2019): ₹78 crore |
| Kiara Advani’s Biggest Opener | Yes | Previous: Kabir Singh |
| Hrithik Roshan’s Worldwide Opener | Yes | Previous: War |
War 2 became the first Indian film to screen in Dolby Cinema in India, with special presentations at the newly opened Dolby Cinema location at City Pride Multiplexes in Kharadi, Pune.