Shabana Azmi on joining cast of Emraan Hashmi's Awarapan 2: 'Ready to do any part that suits my fancy'

Shabana Azmi plays the villain in Awarapan 2 with Emraan Hashmi and Disha Patani. The sequel will resume global filming in early 2026, with Azmi prioritising impactful roles over screen time.

Shabana Azmi/Instagram

Awarapan 2 is filmmaker Nitin Kakkar's next directorial, and veteran actor Shabana Azmi is adding to her extensive resume. With Disha Patani and Emraan Hashmi back as Shivam Malik, the film is a sequel to the 2007 cult blockbuster.

Shabana Azmi's recent projects

Azmi continues to be active across several genres and media, extending a career that spans over 50 years. She has performed in a number of titles this year, including Dabba Cartel on Netflix, Halo on JioHotstar [OTTplay Premium] in India, and the return of her play Broken Images tour. She has a lengthy history working with Mahesh Bhatt, most notably in the 1982 classic Arth.

Azmi portrays Hashmi's adversary in Awarapan 2. In the first instalment, Malik narrowly avoided certain death in a dangerous confrontation; the events in the sequel continue from there. Azmi is shown as a pivotal character who heightens the story's emotional and physical tension.

ALSO READ: Emraan Hashmi drops major update on Awarapan 2: 'It's got crazy music and intense scenes'

Pivotal role in narrative

"[My character] comes at a pivotal turning point in the story," Azmi commented about her involvement in the project.

The actor, who has known Hashmi since he was a kid, feels a pang of nostalgia at the casting. The veteran actor acted in the 1976 film Fakira alongside Hashmi's grandma Purnima Devi.

On collaborating with Emraan Hashmi

According to Azmi, "It’s my first time collaborating with Emraan, whom I’ve seen as a child. I shot for a day in Mumbai with him. I will shoot for the remaining scenes, which will be done abroad, as soon as I wrap up the film I’m presently shooting in London. I am yet to film with Disha Patani."

Vishesh Bhatt produced and co-wrote the script with Bilal Siddiqui, and the film began its Singapore run in September. The crew is presently on a break after filming for a month before returning to locations throughout the world to continue shooting.

Exploring grey shades

Azmi has recently explored several "grey" or negative characters, including roles in Dabba Cartel and the period drama The Empire. The actor underlined that the substance of the part, not the duration, drives her current choices when discussing her preference for these roles over classic multidimensional characters.

Azmi concluded by stating, "I’m at a stage where I’m ready to do any part that suits my fancy. My roles are not about screen time today but more about creating an impact."

Timeline for resuming production

After Azmi finishes her present obligations in the UK, in early 2026, production on Awarapan 2 is planned to resume.

Awarapan 2 FAQs

Q: Is Awarapan 2 a sequel to the 2007 film?

A: Yes, Awarapan 2 is a direct sequel to the 2007 cult classic.

Q: Who is the director of Awarapan 2?

A: The sequel is directed by Nitin Kakkar, known for films like Filmistaan and Jawaani Jaaneman. He takes over the directorial reins from Mohit Suri, who helmed the original film.

Q: What role is Shabana Azmi playing in Awarapan 2?

A: Veteran actor Shabana Azmi plays the central adversary (antagonist) to Emraan Hashmi’s character.

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