‘Chhorii 2’ gets mixed reviews, but Nushrratt Bharuccha wins hearts with her intense performance

Streaming platforms have become a hotspot for horror flicks, and the latest to join the list is ‘Chhorii 2’, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2021 thriller that left a lasting impression with its chilling take on female infanticide. This time, however, the story is darker, the themes heavier, and the scares—unfortunately—not as effective.

Directed by Vishal Furia, Chhorii 2 returns with Nushrratt Bharuccha in the lead as Sakshi, now a mother determined to protect her daughter at any cost. Set seven years after the first film, the plot dives into terrifying territory as Sakshi’s daughter, Ishani, is abducted by a sinister underground tribe intent on sacrificing her to an ancient deity. With just three days to save her, Sakshi is thrust into a brutal world of blind faith, misogyny, child marriage, and demonic rituals.

Nushrratt Bharuccha Nailed Every Emotion……..

If there’s one reason to watch Chhorii 2, it’s Nushrratt’s performance. She brings raw emotion and fearless energy to Sakshi’s character, balancing vulnerability with fierce determination. Social media is buzzing with praise for her, with viewers calling her the “backbone” of the franchise. Film critic Sumit Kadel wrote, “She nailed every emotion, rage, intensity, and pain—so well. It’s not easy to portray layered characters in horror, but she pulled it off effortlessly.”

Another viewer echoed the sentiment, saying, “Nushrratt Bharuccha has delivered a powerhouse performance in Chhorii 2. She carried the film entirely on her shoulders. A must-watch for her acting alone.”

Supporting Cast Leaves an Impression

While Nushrratt carries the emotional weight, the supporting cast adds depth to the unsettling world. Soha Ali Khan makes a haunting entry as Daasi Maa, the twisted high priestess of the cult. Her portrayal is eerie and commanding, offering a chilling presence throughout the film. Gashmeer Mahajani, too, receives appreciation for his grounded and natural performance in a fatherly role, with one fan commenting, “He’s a perfect fit for nurturing roles—natural and sincere.”

A Strong Message, But a Weaker Scare Factor

The original Chhorii impressed by balancing supernatural horror with a powerful social message. However, the sequel seems to tip too far into messaging and loses grip on the core horror elements. Themes like child marriage, blind worship, and abuse are heavily featured, but they often overshadow the actual scares, making the film feel more like a social drama than a horror thriller.

What could have been edge-of-your-seat suspense ends up diluted in a sea of commentary. Even the eerie ‘Adi Manush’—a caveman-like deity demanding young girls for “seva” and “samarpan”—feels more metaphorical than menacing.

Would It Have Fared Better in Theatres?

Despite mixed reviews, many fans feel that Chhorii 2 had the potential to perform well at the box office. Horror as a genre is witnessing a resurgence, and with the right promotional push, this film could’ve drawn curious crowds to theatres.

One user on X remarked, “#Chhorii2 in cinemas with strong promotions could have broken records on Day 1, especially with the current love for horror films.”

With a storyline that leaves room for continuation, Chhorii 2 hints at a possible third installment. Whether or not it materializes, the current film closes on a suspenseful note—though whether audiences are eager for more remains to be seen.