Love vs. Addiction in Aashiqui 2: A Psychological Take on the Film

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Aashiqui 2, directed by Mohit Suri, is a tragic tale of love, addiction, and sacrifice. It follows Rahul Jaykar, a once-celebrated singer battling alcoholism, and Aarohi Shirke, a rising star he discovers and mentors. As Aarohi’s career ascends, Rahul’s addiction spirals, casting a dark shadow over their relationship.

“Tu mujhe achi tarah se janata hai Vivek mai marne ke liye nahi peeta, peene ke liye marta hu…”

This one line tells us a lot about Rahul Jaykar. It shows that Rahul’s relationship with alcohol is not rooted in escapism or a desire to end his life, but rather as a deep, compulsive maladaptive coping mechanism. He tries to portray it as a choice rather than a necessity like is the case for many people; in doing so he tries to rationalize his addiction. The line also depicts the depth of his addiction as he seems to have centralized drinking in his life and everything comes secondary. 

Psychologically speaking, Rahul's actions show symptoms of an alcohol use disorder. He has a deep-seated dependency, as evidenced by his compulsive need to drink even in inappropriate situations and his inability to stop despite the negative consequences. His addiction is portrayed in the movie as an all-consuming force that takes precedence over his obligations to his family and his job. Rahul's violent outbursts and self-destructive behaviours, like robbing Aarohi of money to purchase alcohol, further highlight the hold of his addiction. These actions demonstrate the severity of his condition and are consistent with the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders.

Rahul’s addiction worsens as the film progresses — he drinks compulsively, relapses despite promises to quit, and even steals from Aarohi. A turning point occurs when a journalist accuses him of exploiting Aarohi, intensifying his shame and isolation. These public humiliations, paired with his internal battle, deepen his downward spiral. The film uses these moments not just to show addiction, but to explore how society’s lack of empathy and the absence of structured intervention can exacerbate personal despair.

“Main kisi ke layak nahi raha, Aarohi.”

“Main tumhe sambhal lungi, Rahul.”

These lines not only portray the utter devotion of Aarohi but also the love and support she is ready to give to Rahul despite the circumstances and Rahul himself. 

As Rahul mentors Aarohi, their bond deepens into love. Even when he pushes her away, she insists that success means nothing without him—he stood by her in hard times, and she won’t abandon him in his. From the start, Aarohi believes in him more than he believes in himself, becoming his emotional anchor through the trials of addiction and public scrutiny.

Aarohi’s heartbreaking willingness to give in to Rahul’s addiction merely to be with him blurs the lines between care and unhealthy emotional enmeshment. Her devotion borders on codependency—a psychological condition where one’s emotional identity becomes tied to another’s struggles—reflecting how love, when without bounds, can become self-erasing.

Rahul feels more guilty about being a burden to Aarohi even though she is always there for him. After hearing that Aarohi is willing to sacrifice her career for him, he decides to cut himself off from her because he feels unworthy and accountable for her sacrifices. His addiction also reflects the psychological concept of self-destructive behavior rooted in deep-seated feelings of unworthiness. Rahul's tragic suicide is the result of his internalized shame and despair, as he felt that Aarohi could only be successful and free without him.

But beneath the romantic tragedy lies a deeper psychological commentary on the limits of love and the painful realities of mental health struggles.

Rahul’s tragic end underscores a painful truth: sometimes, love is not enough. Despite Aarohi’s unwavering support and deep devotion, Rahul remains trapped in a cycle of shame, addiction, and self-destruction. His suicide is not just an act of despair—it is a manifestation of unresolved internal conflict, feelings of unworthiness, and the psychological toll of addiction.

The movie serves as a sobering reminder that addiction is not a personal failing, but a psychological and medical condition that requires more than just emotional support. The film critiques the romantic notion that just love can "save" someone from their inner demons. It shows that, while love can offer comfort, it cannot replace the need for professional help, structured recovery, and a sense of individual self-worth. It prompts viewers to question the often-glorified ideal of self-sacrificing love. Aarohi’s willingness to give up her career and even fall into Rahul’s destructive patterns reflects how codependency can masquerade as loyalty. 

Ultimately, Aashiqui 2 leaves us with a haunting yet crucial message—healing from addiction is a multi-faceted journey that requires more than affection; it demands empathy, therapeutic intervention, and the courage to reclaim oneself—both for the person struggling and for those who love them.


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Written by: Unnati Mudliar (ADT23SVSB0095)

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