Ileana D’Cruz has spoken candidly about why she didn’t feature in the recently released film Raid 2. The actor, who had a pivotal role alongside Ajay Devgn in the first installment of Raid (2018), explained that she was approached for the sequel but had to decline due to her responsibilities as a new mother.

During a Q&A session on Instagram, a fan expressed how much they missed seeing her in Raid 2. Responding warmly, Ileana revealed that the team behind the film did reach out to her, but the timing didn’t align as she had just become a mother and was adjusting to the new chapter in her life.

“Raid was a film very close to my heart, and the character Malini will always remain special to me,” Ileana shared. “It would have been wonderful to reprise that role, and I truly enjoyed working with director Raj Kumar Gupta and, of course, Ajay Devgn.”

She acknowledged the changes that come with parenthood and emphasized that her priorities had shifted. Ileana praised Vaani Kapoor, who stepped into the role of Ajay’s wife in Raid 2, saying, “Vaani looked lovely in the trailers, and I’m sure she’s done a fabulous job in the film.”

Raid 2, which also stars Riteish Deshmukh, hit theatres on May 1. It was once again directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, reuniting him with Ajay Devgn for the follow-up.

Ileana concluded her response by hoping her statement would clarify any confusion surrounding her absence from the sequel. She mentioned that although she’s taking a break from films at the moment, she’s thrilled about Vaani’s contribution and wishes the team all the best.

Ileana welcomed her first child, Koa Phoenix Dolan, in August 2023, with her husband Michael Dolan. Her most recent project, Do Aur Do Pyaar, also starring Vidya Balan and Pratik Gandhi, was released in April 2024 and directed by Shirsha Guha Thakurta.