“OMG 2,” a 2023 Indian Hindi-language comedy-drama movie, addresses sex education in Indian schools. Written and directed by Amit Rai, it serves as a spiritual sequel to the acclaimed “OMG – Oh My God!” (2012). The star-studded cast includes Akshay Kumar, Pankaj Tripathi, and Yami Gautam.

The film made its theatrical debut on 11 August 2023 and swiftly achieved a remarkable feat, garnering over ₹125.02 crore (US$16 million) worldwide within its initial eight days. This accomplishment positions it as the eighth highest-grossing Hindi film of 2023, spotlighting its strong reception among audiences.

Concept:

OMG 2 narrates the tale of Kanti Sharan Mudgal, an ardent follower of Lord Shiva. He is a simple individual, a devoted father, and a loving husband. When his son faces accusations of improper behavior and is expelled from school, Kanti confronts the situation. He discovers that his son has fallen victim to misinformation and misguided perceptions.

Overwhelmed by sorrow and unable to manage the crisis, Kanti resolves to depart the town with his family. However, a divine intervention alters his course, leading him to the truth. Fueled by this revelation, Kanti embarks on a journey to seek justice by confronting those accountable in a court of law.

Cast:

1. Akshay Kumar as Messenger of Lord Shiva
2. Pankaj Tripathi as Kanti Sharan Mudgal
3. Yami Gautam as Kamini Maheshwari
4. Pavan Malhotra as Judge Purushottam Nagar
5. Govind Namdev as Pujari
6. Arun Govil as Principal Atal Nath Maheshwari
7. Brijendra Kala as Dr Gagan Malvia
8. Aarush Varma as Vivek, Kanti’s son
9. Geeta Agrawal as Indumati Kanti Sharan Mudgal
10. Hemant Kumar Choudhary as Nagdev Sir
11. Vijay Mishra as Advocate Ajab Bundela
12. Kshitij Pawar as Hawaldar Laalchand
13. Yash Bhojwani as Anup
14. Shruti Gholap as Mughda Ma’am
15. Rajiv Kachroo as Sunil D’Costa
16. Vedika Nawani as Sophie
17. Bhavesh Babani as Shaurya, Judge Nagar’s Son
18. Veena Mehta as Chandu’s Mother
19. Karan Aanand as Praful Maheshwari
20. Jyoti Tiwari as Pandeyji’s Daughter in Law
21. Aashriya Mishra as Pandeyji’s Grand Daughter
22. Ajoy Chakraborty as Defendant Advocate
23. Pratap Verma as Maulvi
24. Namrata Kapoor as Mona’s Mother
25. Hemant Soni as Middle Aged Man
26. Manoj Dutt as Kanti’s Doctor
27. Shiv Kumar Verma as Protesting Man
28. Parag Chhapekar as Medical store owner
29. Simran Sharma as Female Prostitute

Production:

Development and Casting:

Initially, there were speculations in January 2021 about the film’s production, featuring Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal reprising their roles from the original. However, Rawal dismissed these claims. Subsequently, in June 2021, the sequel to “OMG” was officially announced, featuring a fresh narrative centered around Kumar.

New cast members, including Pankaj Tripathi and Yami Gautam, were confirmed in the same month. Later, in November 2021, Arun Govil was welcomed aboard to the ensemble as the Principal. This series of developments solidified the evolution of the sequel’s production and the expansion of its cast.

Filming:

The film’s initial shoot commenced on September 2, 2021, in Mumbai, with Tripathi leading the way. Subsequently, Akshay Kumar joined the production during the second schedule, which started on October 23, 2021. The film’s third phase of filming began in December 2021, marking another significant step in its production journey.

Music:

Critical Response:

OMG 2 has garnered immense acclaim from both viewers and reviewers alike.

A critique from Bollywood Hungama gave the movie a rating of 4 out of 5 stars and commented, “Overall, OMG 2 is a courageous, impactful, progressive, and sensitively executed film, showcasing powerful performances as its standout aspect.”

Renuka Vyavahare of The Times Of India awarded the film 4 out of 5 stars, mentioning, “OMG 2 illustrates how a movie can be both entertaining and socially relevant, without sacrificing informative value. It proves that humor and insightful commentary can coexist for an enjoyable viewing experience. Bring your family along to witness this unique amalgamation of wit and societal insight.”

Tushar Joshi from India Today gave the movie 4 out of 5 stars and remarked, “In sum, ‘OMG 2’ is a film that blends various elements flawlessly. In essence, it succeeds in entertaining while conveying a meaningful message. Fans of Akshay Kumar are in for a remarkable treat as he delivers one of his finest performances to date.”

Box Office:

As of August 18, 2023, the movie has accumulated a global box office collection of ₹125.02 crore (equivalent to US$16 million).