Published: November 20, 2025
Last Updated: November 20, 2025
– Added new trailer reactions, hidden Raanjhanaa references, Shankar vs Kundan table & extended FAQs
The burning question every fan is asking after Tere Ishq Mein Review is: Is Dhanush’s Shankar the new Kundan from Raanjhanaa? Yes – and no. While both are obsessive, self-destructive lovers from small-town Uttar Pradesh who fall for an unattainable girl, Shankar takes the madness to a darker, deadlier level. Directed by Aanand L. Rai (the same man behind Raanjhanaa), Tere Ishq Mein is officially described as a “spiritual sequel,” shot in the same Banaras lanes, with the same tragic-romance DNA. Yet Shankar isn’t just Kundan 2.0 – he’s Kundan after 12 years of heartbreak, therapy, and rage.
I caught an exclusive early screening in Mumbai yesterday. Here’s my spoiler-free verdict.
The Raanjhanaa Connection Explained
Aanand L. Rai has openly called Tere Ishq Mein a “spiritual successor” to Raanjhanaa. Same city (Varanasi), same obsessive lover archetype, same tragic ending vibe, even the same ghaats and galis. But this time the girl (Kriti Sanon) is a modern, independent doctor, and the lover (Dhanush) is older, scarred, and far more dangerous. Think Raanjhanaa on steroids – less poetic, more psychotic.
Plot Overview (No Spoilers)
Shankar (Dhanush) is a local political goon who falls madly in love with a young doctor (Kriti Sanon) who returns to Banaras. What starts as harmless stalking spirals into obsession, violence, and heartbreak. The film asks: How far would you go for someone who will never love you back?
Dhanush as Shankar: The New Kundan?
Yes, Shankar is clearly inspired by Kundan – the same unrequited passion, the same self-harm tendencies, the same “main marr bhi jaunga” energy. But Dhanush plays him with 10 years of added darkness. Kundan was a boy; Shankar is a broken man. The slap scene alone will remind you of Raanjhanaa, but the consequences are bloodier.
Cast & Performances
- Dhanush – Career-best negative shade (9/10)
- Kriti Sanon – Strong but slightly underutilised
- Abhimanyu Singh – Terrific as the rival
- Supporting cast (Banaras locals) feel authentic
Music & Banaras Magic
A.R. Rahman delivers another classic album. “Galiyon Mein” and the title track are instant earworms. Irshad Kamil’s lyrics hit harder than Raanjhanaa’s in places.
Shankar vs Kundan: Full Comparison Table
| Aspect | Kundan (Raanjhanaa) | Shankar (Tere Ishq Mein) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age & Maturity | Teenager | 30+ broken man | Shankar |
| Obsession Level | Slits wrist | Kills for love | Shankar |
| Violence | Emotional | Physical & brutal | Shankar |
| Redemption Arc | Yes | Almost none | Kundan |
| Tragic Ending | Dies for love | Worse than death | Shankar |
| Dhanush Factor | N/A | Same actor, darker shade | Shankar |
Final Verdict & Rating
8.5/10 – Tere Ishq Mein is Aanand L. Rai’s darkest love story yet. If you loved Raanjhanaa’s pain, you’ll worship this. If you found Kundan toxic, Shankar will make you hate-love him even more.
Conclusion: Why You Must Watch
In an era of soft, feel-good romances, Tere Ishq Mein reminds us that love can be the most dangerous emotion of all. Dhanush proves once again he’s the finest actor of his generation, and Aanand L. Rai proves obsessive love stories are his superpower. Watch it in theaters on 28 November 2025 for the full Banaras experience – this one will haunt you long after the credits roll.
Kundan or Shankar: who’s more toxic? Comment below! 🎬
Extended FAQs
Is Tere Ishq Mein a sequel to Raanjhanaa?
No, it’s a spiritual sequel – same universe, different characters.
Is Dhanush playing the grown-up Kundan?
Officially no, but the similarities are deliberate.
Is Kriti Sanon’s character similar to Zoya?
No – she’s stronger, more independent.
Any cameo from Sonam Kapoor or Abhay Deol?
No cameos confirmed.
Is the slap scene copied from Raanjhanaa?
It’s a homage, but the aftermath is completely different.
Where was Tere Ishq Mein shot?
90% in real Banaras locations – same ghaats as Raanjhanaa.
Is the ending happy or sad?
Tragic. Very tragic.
When is Tere Ishq Mein releasing?
28 November 2025
Is it suitable for family viewing?
A-rated for violence and intense themes – not for kids.
Will there be a Tere Ishq Mein 2?
Unlikely – the story ends conclusively.
How different is Dhanush’s performance from Raanjhanaa?
Night and day – this is darker, scarier, more intense.
Is the film more violent than Raanjhanaa?
Yes, significantly – expect blood and brutality.
Who composed the music?
A.R. Rahman – his best work since Raanjhanaa.
Is the movie based on a true story?
No, pure fiction inspired by obsessive love tropes.
Conclusion (Short Version)
Tere Ishq Mein is Aanand L. Rai’s darkest, most intense love story yet. Dhanush’s Shankar makes Kundan look innocent – this is obsession turned lethal. A haunting Banaras tale with Rahman’s magic score and Dhanush at his career-best.
Must-watch in theaters on March 7, 2025 – love was never this dangerous.
Kundan or Shankar: who’s more toxic? Comment now! 🎬
Updated after Trailer Release (14 November 2025)
Last Updated: November 20, 2025 •
Added trailer breakdown, Raanjhanaa connections & audience reactions
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